Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty defeated Indonesia’s Fajar Alfian and Muhammad Fikri to help India lift the maiden Singapore Open title. After losing the opening game 18-21, the Indian duo responded strongly to take the next two games 21-17 and 21-16 and secure their first title in two years. The victory capped an impressive campaign and highlighted their ability to deliver under pressure. After the match, the pair thanked the passionate crowd, describing the venue as one of the best stadiums they have played in.
โWe used to lose earlier, but I think that this will be a special tournament for me,” the duo said after the match. “Thank you, crowd. Thank you so much, everyone. You guys have been so passionate, no matter what, whoever is playing. I think it’s one of the best stadiums to play in. Thank you everyone,โ the duo said after the match.ย
Notably, the result carried extra weight given the journey that preceded it. Despite consistently reaching the latter stages of tournaments since their last title in 2024, the world No. 4 pair had repeatedly fallen just short of lifting silverware. That run came to an end with a determined display on one of the biggest stages of the season.
Meanwhile, the final demanded patience and resilience. After surrendering the opening game, the Indian pair gradually wrestled control of the contest. Their response was measured and composed, allowing them to claim the next two games.
The title added another notable achievement to their growing list of accomplishments. Already Asian Games and Commonwealth Games champions, Satwik and Chirag secured their ninth World Tour title and a third Super 750 crown. The success also made them the first Indian men’s doubles pair to capture the Singapore Open title.
The route to final and celebration
Their route to the trophy was anything but straightforward. One of the defining moments of the campaign came in the semifinals, where they overcame reigning world champions Kim Won Ho and Seo Seung Jae of South Korea to earn a place in the title match.
As the final point was won, the emotions that had built up over months of near-misses poured out on court. Both players dropped to the surface in celebration before embracing the occasion. Satwik marked the moment with a baby-themed gesture for his brother and sister-in-law, who recently became parents, while Chirag celebrated with a roar. The pair later danced on court as they savoured the achievement.
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