Rankireddy has been grappling with shoulder issues for several years, which have hindered their ability to maintain momentum following successful tournaments. The duo recently celebrated a victory at the
"Managing the shoulder injury has been tough. It fluctuates; some days I feel good, and other days not so much. It’s frustrating because you want to build on your momentum," Rankireddy shared with PTI. He acknowledged the impact of his condition on Shetty, stating, "When you perform well and then have to pull out, it can be irritating for your partner. We’ve learned to navigate this situation, but it’s not easy." Despite these setbacks, the duo has no plans to alter their playing style. "Our game remains aggressive and explosive, just as it has been since we started," Rankireddy affirmed.
Open Competition Ahead
Rankireddy and Shetty are currently ranked among the top five pairs in a men’s doubles field that has seen no single team dominate in recent years. The last six championships have been won by six different pairs from five nations, highlighting the competitive nature of the event. "Doubles has evolved significantly; it’s faster now, with more flat exchanges and long rallies. Every team in this tournament is strong," Shetty noted.
With the unpredictability of the competition, Shetty refrained from naming a favorite, emphasizing that any pair could emerge victorious. "In men’s doubles, it’s hard to predict a winner. Every team has the potential to claim a medal," he stated. The duo believes that the initial exchanges in rallies will be crucial, with both players stressing the importance of the first four strokes. "We need to focus on those opening strokes, as they set the tone for the rally," Shetty explained, recalling how this strategy worked well for them at the Singapore Open.
A Personal Connection to the Championships
As they prepare for the World Championships, Rankireddy is particularly excited about competing in India, a place filled with personal memories. He reminisced about attending the 2009 World Championships in Hyderabad, where his brother volunteered and his father served as a line umpire. "I have fond memories from 2009, watching the men’s doubles final and playing with a racquet thrown into the crowd by the winner, which my father retrieved," he recalled. "Now, to be playing in India at the World Championships is a remarkable journey from my small town to this stage." The duo is eager to embrace the home crowd's support, viewing it as a privilege rather than pressure. "We love challenges and hope to showcase the growth of badminton in India," Rankireddy concluded.
