Facing the Challenge Head-On
At just 21 years old, Shetty is not daunted by the prospect of competing against the best in the world. Reflecting on his journey over the past year on the senior circuit, he admits that initially, matching the pace of top-20 players was a significant hurdle. However, he feels he has adapted well and is now ready to challenge them. “I think I can push them and play at their pace. I’m a lot more confident now,” he stated during an online interaction.
Shetty is aware of the expectations that come with representing India, especially in a tournament with such a rich history for the nation. “There are some expectations, but I’m focused on my first-round match against Shi. It will be a great challenge,” he remarked, emphasizing his eagerness to receive support from the home crowd.
Learning from Past Encounters
Having faced Shi earlier this year at the Asian Championships, where he suffered a defeat, Shetty is determined to approach their upcoming match with a fresh mindset. “It’s a new tournament, and I’m not really thinking about that defeat. I’ll definitely be analyzing that match and I’ll be more prepared,” he explained, highlighting his commitment to tactical improvement.
Shetty also spoke about his training regimen, which has intensified under the guidance of coach Irwansyah Adi Pratama. He has been focusing on speed and agility, aiming to enhance his overall game. “We’ve been preparing really well for the World Championships, working on all aspects, including physical and tactical parts,” he noted.
As he looks ahead to the tournament, Shetty remains grounded, focusing on each match as it comes. He hopes to inspire young players watching him compete, emphasizing the importance of crowd support in elevating a player’s performance. “It would be amazing for any player to play with the crowd behind them, cheering for every point,” he concluded, embodying the spirit of a competitor ready to make his mark on the world stage.
