China Masters 2026: Satwik-Chirag survive 36-shot rally, Srikanth reaches the end

At the 2026 China Masters Super 750, Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty defeated Kim Astrup and Rasmus Geng Pe in the quarterfinals with a score of 21-13, 16-21, 21-18. The decisive moment came in the third game at 17-17, where a 36-shot rally showcased their improved mental resilience and tactical flexibility. Meanwhile, Kidambi Srikanth, 33, lost to Lee Cheuk Yiu 16-21, 16-21, confirming his career is in terminal decline. The article analyzes the contrasting trajectories of Indian badminton's two prominent players.