Prakash Padukone Backs Indian Badminton Stars for Olympic Glory

Indian badminton legend Prakash Padukone believes Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty have a golden opportunity at the Olympics. Meanwhile, Lakshya Sen and HS Prannoy face off in singles, and PV Sindhu aims for a medal. The exciting quarter-finals await the Indian shuttlers.

India's badminton great, Prakash Padukone, has voiced his confidence in Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty clinching an Olympic gold in doubles. The world number three pair secured their quarter-final berth with a dominant straight-game victory over Indonesia's Fajar Alfian and Muhammad Rian Ardianto.

Satwik and Chirag have made significant strides in badminton, consistently breaking records and winning titles. They showcased flawless technique and style during the group stage. Their next challenge is against Malaysia's Aaron Chia and Soh Wooi Yik as they aim for a medal in men's doubles.

Prakash has backed the duo to reach the finals, citing their strong performances. "They have a chance of winning," he told ANI. Meanwhile, in men's singles, Lakshya Sen and HS Prannoy are set for a thrilling pre-quarter-final clash, with both players vying for a spot in the next round. Lakshya impressively ousted world number three Jonatan Christie, while Prannoy topped his group by defeating Vietnam's Le Duc Phat.

In women's singles, two-time Olympic medallist PV Sindhu, under the mentorship of Prakash, is targeting a medal. Sindhu's real test begins against China's He Bingjiao in the Round of 16 after an easy group stage. "The real competition will start tomorrow," Prakash noted. (ANI)

(With inputs from agencies.)