BWF World Championships 2026: India's full squad as event returns home 17 years later
New Delhi: The 30th edition of the BWF World Championships gets underway at the Indira Gandhi Indoor Stadium in New Delhi, marking the prestigious event's return to Indian soil after 17 years. The host nation is fielding a strong contingent across all five disciplines, aiming to capitalise on home support.
Indian Contingent by Category
India's entries across the five events comprise:
Men's singles: Lakshya Sen, Ayush Shetty
Men's doubles: Satwiksairaj Rankireddy-Chirag Shetty, Hariharan Amsakarunan-MR Arjun
Women's singles: PV Sindhu, Unnati Hooda
Women's doubles: Treesa Jolly-Gayatri Gopichand, Kavipriya Selvam-Simran Singhi
Mixed doubles: Dhruv Kapila-Tanisha Crasto, Rohan Kapoor-Ruthvika Gadde, Ashith Surya-Amrutha Pramuthesh
Key Contenders to Watch Out For
Five-time World Championship medallist PV Sindhu headlines the nation's challenge in women's singles. Seeded ninth, the 2019 world champion enters the tournament boasting strong momentum following her recent Japan Open victory. Playing on home turf, Sindhu remains India's premier contender in the singles draw.
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In men's doubles, fifth seeds Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty represent India’s strongest prospect for a top-podium finish. Having previously secured bronze medals at the 2022 and 2025 World Championships, the Asian Games champions are targeting their maiden world title after winning the BWF Super 750 Singapore Open earlier this season.
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In men's singles, 14th seed Lakshya Sen, a bronze medallist from the 2021 edition, spearheads the campaign alongside debutant Ayush Shetty. The 22-year-old Shetty faces the toughest opening-round test of the contingent, having been drawn against top seed and defending world champion Shi Yuqi of China.
In women's doubles, Treesa Jolly and Gayatri Gopichand carry India’s primary hopes, while Dhruv Kapila and Tanisha Crasto, seeded 15th, lead the country's three-pair charge in mixed doubles. With home advantage in their favour, the Indian team aims to add to its historic overall tally of 15 World Championship medals.