India's HS Prannoy Advances to Semi-Finals at World Badminton Championships

India, 26 December 2025 — HS Prannoy has made a significant stride by advancing to the semi-finals of the World Badminton Championships ongoing in Copenhagen, Denmark. The Indian shuttler defeated Japan's Kento Momota in a thrilling quarter-final match on Friday, with scores of 21-18, 15-21, 21-19.

Prannoy, currently ranked 9th in the world, showcased exceptional skill and resilience, especially in the decider set, where he came from behind to secure the victory. This win marks his first semi-final appearance in a World Championship, underscoring his consistent performance this season.

The 2025 World Badminton Championships has seen a strong representation from India, with several players making it past the initial rounds. However, Prannoy remains the sole Indian contender in the singles category, raising hopes for a podium finish.

The semi-final match is scheduled for Saturday, where Prannoy will face China's Chen Long, the tournament's second seed. A victory would see Prannoy advance to his first World Championship final, a milestone achievement in his career.

This advancement is significant for Indian badminton, as it underscores the country's growing prominence on the global stage. A win in the upcoming match could further bolster India's reputation in the sport, which has been steadily gaining traction.