Hong Kong Open: Shetty Thwarts Naraoka
Ayush Shetty brought Kodai Naraoka crashing back to earth at LI-NING Hong Kong Open 2025 – just a day after the Japanese showed defending champion Viktor Axelsen the door.
· PREM KUMAR
After splitting the first two games, Shetty seized control in the decider with a blistering start that rattled the fifth seed. Naraoka’s focus wavered and unforced errors crept in, allowing Shetty to capitalise and close out the match 19-21 21-12 21-14 in 72 minutes.
“He has a good defence so I needed to break through it, keep the attack on,” said the 20-year-old Shetty. “Starting strong in the third game was crucial, I was on the better side of the court. The hall’s a bit windy but I’m loving it here.”
Shetty’s recent form has been impressive. After clinching the US Open in June, he now finds himself in his first Super 500 quarterfinal – on debut at this tournament. On the other side of the net tomorrow would be good friend Lakshya Sen, who overcame another Indian H.S. Prannoy 15-21 21-18 21-10.