H.S. Prannoy jumps to seventh in BWF rankings, achieves career-best position

Prannoy remains the only Indian singles player in the top 10.

From going outside the top 30 to returning in the top 10, H.S. Prannoy has come a long way. The giant-killer has now achieved his career-best ranking this week after BWF released the new rankings. Prannoy has been struggling with his fitness and form for quite a long time. However, like every great story, a person has to struggle a lot in order to achieve success.

The same was the case with Prannoy. The turning point came when he defeated Viktor Axelsen 14-21,21-19,21-16 in Indonesia Masters in 2021. Before this match, he had six 1st round exits out of the eight tournaments he had played. He reached the quarterfinals after defeating Viktor, where he eventually lost to compatriot Kidambi Srikanth.

Trouble with getting sponsors

However, this wasn’t enough for Prannoy to get sponsors so that he can play badminton without any money constraints. The problem escalated as Prannoy was thinking to withdraw from the world championships that were happening in Huelva, Spain due to lack of money. He even said, “All I can do is to play until the money run out." Though he participated with the help of the GoSports Foundation and ONGC.

He surprised many players at Huelva, defeating 8th seed Ng Ka Long Angus in 3 games in R32 and 11th seed Rasmus Gemke in 3 games. Thus living up to his name of 'Giant-Killer.' However, he lost to the eventual champion Loh Kean Yew who was in brilliant form.

Regaining lost touch and confidence

From there, Prannoy never looked back. He regained his form and most importantly, his confidence. The change was visible as he reached his 1st tour finals in five years at the Swiss Open 2022. He also managed to reach the Quarter final of seven tournaments and the semifinal of two tournaments.

He played a key role in the Historic Thomas Cup Victory as 3rd Men singles, He won all his matches and ensured India scripts History. He also qualified for the World Tour Finals. 2022 was the best year for Prannoy. He got back his confidence and also sponsors also. He troubled Viktor Axelson, defeating him consecutive times when he is in great form.

He entered the top 10 again at the end of 2022 and also became India’s No 1. Now he reached his career-best ranking of seven in the world.