All Eyes on Sindhu and Ayush as India Begins Australian Open Campaign

Indian badminton will once again look towards its biggest stars as the Australian Open Super 500 gets underway on Tuesday, with PV Sindhu aiming to end a lengthy title drought and emerging talent Ayush Shetty leading the country's challenge in the men's singles competition.

For Sindhu, the tournament presents another opportunity to rediscover the winning touch that has eluded her on the BWF World Tour since her triumph at the Syed Modi International in 2024 . The two time Olympic medallist and former world champion arrives in Sydney with a favourable draw and renewed hopes of securing her first title in more than two years.

Seeded third, Sindhu will begin her campaign against Peru's Ines Lucia Castillo . A deep run could set up a semifinal showdown with Japan's world No. 3 Akane Yamaguchi , a familiar rival against whom the Indian holds a narrow edge in head to head meetings. Thailand's Pornpawee Chochuwong is projected as a potential final opponent.

India's women's singles contingent will also feature promising youngsters and experienced campaigners. Tanvi Sharma , Malvika Bansod , Anmol Kharb , Aakarshi Kashyap , and Tanya Hemanth will all be looking to make an impact against a competitive international field.

In the men's draw, sixth seeded Ayush Shetty carries significant expectations after his rapid rise on the world stage. Ranked world No. 20, the young Indian opens against a qualifier and will be eager to convert his recent promise into a strong tournament run. Experienced shuttler HS Prannoy and Kiran George will also be in action.

India's hopes in doubles will rest on men's pairs Hariharan Amsakarunan and M.R. Arjun , along with Achutaditya Rao Doddavarapu and Pochana Arjun Reddy , while sixth seeded mixed doubles duo Dhruv Kapila and Tanisha Crasto will seek a positive start.

With seasoned champions and rising stars sharing the spotlight, India heads into the Australian Open hoping for a week of breakthrough performances and podium finishes.