New Delhi: Former world no. 1 pair Satok Sairaj Rankireddy And Chirag Shetty finally returned to the winner’s circle in style, making history with a sensational comeback victory to claim his maiden Singapore Open crown on Sunday.The Indian duo bounced back from a game down by defeating Indonesia’s Fajr Alfian and Mohammad Shoahib Fikri 18-21, 21-17, 21-16 in the men’s doubles final of the BWF Super 750 tournament. The win not only ended a frustrating two-year wait for the title, but also made them the first Indian pair to win the doubles title at the prestigious Singapore Open.For Satuk and Chirag, the victory secured their ninth World Tour title and third Super 750 crown, underscoring their status as one of the most successful doubles combinations Indian badminton has produced.The long wait is finally over.The Asian Games and Commonwealth Games champions had not lifted a trophy since winning the Thailand Open in 2024. Since then, they have suffered near misses, finishing as runners-up in four finals.That drought finally ended in Singapore after a week in which they showed both resilience and quality. The victory was made all the sweeter as they entered the final with a 1-2 record against the Indonesian pair, which included a loss at the Malaysia Open earlier this year.The Indians also reached the summit riding a high of confidence after impressive reigning world champions and top seeds Kim Won-ho and Seo Seung-jae in the semifinals.A return built on satisfaction and strengthThe final started on a tense note for the Indians as Alfian and Fikri took a close-fought opening game. Satuk and Chirag held a brief advantage midway through the contest, but crucial late-game errors allowed the Indonesians to take the initiative.Faced with the prospect of another painful final defeat, the Indian pair responded brilliantly.They turned up the intensity in the second game, attacking with great purpose and dominating rallies. Chirag’s quick interceptions at the net combined with Satuk’s powerful smashes helped them level the match and change the momentum.The decisive game produced the best badminton from the Indians. They took an early lead and maintained control despite a strong fight from the Indonesians. Whenever the pressure mounted, Satuk’s increasingly sharp smashes provided the answers as the pair continued to cruise to victory.With five match points, the Indians faced a delay warning from the umpire, but it didn’t matter. On the very next turn, Alfian sent a return into the net, sparking jubilant scenes.After sealing the winning point, Chirag fell flat on the court in relief and celebration. Satuk followed with a baby-themed gesture before the pair hugged and danced on the court, soaking in the victory that had been two years in the making.
