HS Prannoy Criticises Asian Games Scheduling After Indian Shuttlers Forced Into Double Duty

Indian badminton star HS Prannoy has voiced strong criticism regarding the scheduling at the 2026 Asian Games, highlighting the physical toll on athletes forced to compete in multiple matches within a single day. The veteran shuttler took to social media to express his frustration, comparing the current tournament structure to a regional competition rather than a major continental event.

Prannoy’s comments followed a demanding Saturday for Indian prospects Ayush Shetty and Unnati Hooda, both of whom were required to navigate two singles fixtures in the same day. The scheduling pressure was compounded by the fact that the team event medal ceremony had concluded late the previous night, leaving players with minimal recovery time before returning to the court.

In contrast, Hooda endured a grueling 79-minute battle to overcome Malaysia’s Wong Ling Ching. After taking the opening game 21-14, the Indian shuttler dropped the second 20-22 before clinching a tense decider 21-19. Hooda now faces a challenging Round of 16 encounter against Indonesia’s world No. 6, Putri Kusuma Wardani, having previously lost to her at the 2025 Hylo Open.

Prannoy did not mince words regarding the situation, stating on X that the schedule was unreasonable. He noted that the late finish of the team event ceremonies combined with back-to-back singles matches on the following day created an unsustainable environment for the competitors.

Despite Sen establishing an early 5-1 lead in the opening game, Loh responded with a decisive ten-point streak to take the first game 21-12. Sen managed to force a decider by winning the second game 21-15, but Loh ultimately regained control to secure the third game 21-14, ending the Indian's tournament run.