New Delhi, August 22, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
Gayatri Gopichand described her and Treesa Jolly’s historic World Championships campaign as an “amazing journey” after the Indian pair secured a landmark bronze medal despite losing their semifinal to defending champions Liu Sheng Shu and Tan Ning of China.
The Chinese top seeds ended the Indians’ impressive run with an 18-21, 21-13, 21-8 victory. However, the semifinal appearance assured Treesa and Gayatri of India’s first women’s doubles medal at the World Championships in 15 years, since Jwala Gutta and Ashwini Ponnappa won bronze in 2011.
“I think it’s been amazing. I think it’s been an amazing journey,” Gayatri told IANS.
The Indians entered the tournament without much momentum after injury setbacks, with Treesa’s ankle injury earlier this year keeping her out of competition for three months. Their performance at the Philippines Challenge, however, restored their confidence.
“Coming to this tournament, we just wanted to believe in ourselves and I feel like after Philippines Challenge, I think the momentum was there,” Gayatri said.
The pair defeated combinations from Spain and the USA in the early rounds before producing one of the tournament’s biggest upsets in the quarterfinals, defeating fourth seeds Jia Yi Fan and Zhang Shu Xian of China to secure a medal.
Gayatri said the quarterfinal victory came from sticking to their game plan and remaining patient, adding that they had no expectations going into the match.
The Indians also pushed Liu and Tan hard in the semifinal, taking the opening game before the Chinese pair fought back and dominated the decider.
The bronze medal was particularly significant for Treesa after her injury-interrupted season. Gayatri also credited her partner’s energy on court for boosting her confidence.
“Her presence on court is amazing,” Gayatri said, referring to Treesa’s vocal support during matches.
The achievement became even more emotional with strong support from the crowd. Gayatri said she was surprised to see the stadium packed and welcomed the growing recognition for badminton in India.
“It’s been a mix of all emotions. Very emotional, super happy and a lot of emotions,” she said.
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