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India has a rich history in badminton, with numerous players making significant marks on the global stage. Here is a look at the top 10 badminton players in India as of 2024:
- Lakshya Sen: A young and dynamic player, Lakshya Sen has risen through the ranks with impressive performances. He won gold at the 2022 Commonwealth Games and was a key player in India's Thomas Cup victory. Currently ranked 19th in the world, he is one of India's most promising talents.
- HS Prannoy: Known for his consistency and experience, HS Prannoy is currently the top-ranked Indian in men's singles, holding the 8th position globally. He has been pivotal in team events, including India's Thomas Cup win in 2022.
- Kidambi Srikanth: A veteran in Indian badminton, Kidambi Srikanth has had a successful career with notable achievements like winning silver at the 2018 Commonwealth Games and bronze in 2022. He is currently ranked 25th in the world.
- Chirag Shetty and Satwiksairaj Rankireddy: This formidable men's doubles duo recently reclaimed the world No. 1 spot. They have numerous titles to their names, including the 2023 Asian Games gold medal, and are considered one of the best pairs globally.
- Priyanshu Rajawat: A young and emerging talent, Priyanshu Rajawat is ranked 30th globally and has shown great potential, contributing to India's Thomas Cup triumph in 2022.
- Sameer Verma: Despite being lower in the rankings currently, Sameer Verma has been a significant player in Indian badminton with multiple international titles and a career-high ranking of 11th.
- Kiran George: At 22, Kiran George is making his mark with a career-best ranking of 44th and several titles to his name. He is seen as one of the future stars of Indian badminton.
- Mithun Manjunath: Another young talent, Mithun Manjunath is currently ranked 64th. He has shown promise with strong performances in various international tournaments.
- Sai Praneeth: An experienced player with a bronze medal at the 2019 World Championships, Sai Praneeth has been a consistent performer for India. He is currently ranked 93rd globally.
- Parupalli Kashyap: A veteran and former top player, Kashyap has had an illustrious career with significant contributions to Indian badminton, including two gold medals at the Commonwealth Games. He continues to be a respected figure in the sport.
These players highlight the depth of talent in Indian badminton, showcasing a blend of experienced veterans and promising young stars.
India boasts some exceptional female badminton players who have made significant strides on both national and international stages. Here are the top 10 female badminton players in India:
- PV Sindhu: A global icon, PV Sindhu has won multiple medals, including an Olympic silver in 2016 and bronze in 2021, along with several World Championship titles and Commonwealth Games golds.
- Saina Nehwal: A trailblazer in Indian badminton, Saina Nehwal has an impressive track record, including an Olympic bronze in 2012 and multiple international titles.
- Malvika Bansod: This rising star from Maharashtra is making waves with four BWF International Challenge/Series titles to her.
- Aakarshi Kashyap: A promising talent, Kashyap has already secured medals at the South Asian Games and the Birmingham Commonwealth Games.
- Anupama Upadhyaya: At just 18, Upadhyaya is a budding talent from the Prakash Padukone Badminton Academy with several junior and international titles.
- Tasnim Mir: A junior champion, Mir has clinched multiple BWF Junior International titles and is seen as a future star of Indian badminton.
- Ashmita Chaliha: Hailing from Assam, Chaliha has won gold at the South Asian Championships and several international titles.
- Tanya Hemanth: This young player from Bangalore has shown great potential with titles at the junior level and a promising international ranking.
- Samiya Imad Farooqui: Trained by Pullela Gopichand, Farooqui has a solid junior record, including a win at the Under-15 Asian Championships.
- Ira Sharma: Another young talent, Sharma has steadily climbed the ranks with consistent performances at international competitions.
These players represent the dynamic and competitive spirit of Indian women's badminton, showcasing their talent and determination on the global stage.