Ashith Surya Interview

“He’s living his dreams through me—when I stand on that podium, I carry not just my name but his too.”

1. How did your badminton journey start?

My journey began in Belur, a small town in Hassan district, where I used to play on an outdoor clay court under the guidance of Coach Raghavendra Hathwar. He supported me like a godfather, playing a crucial role in shaping my early interest in the sport. When I got selected for my first National School Games—still training outdoors—I went on to win a gold medal. That moment made me fall in love with badminton even more.

However, pursuing it professionally wasn’t easy. Like many Indian parents, mine prioritized academics. They supported my sports journey in every way they could, but studies remained the top priority. I was always an all-rounder in school—playing volleyball, basketball, football, table tennis, chess, and netball. And I was good at most of them.

After my 10th standard, having secured 92.64% and winning gold in badminton, I joined SDM PU College in Ujire on a free merit seat. I continued performing well, even winning for my college and Mangalore district at the state level and getting selected for Nationals again. Later, I pursued a Mechanical Engineering degree at SDMIT Ujire—encouraged by the SDM Management to continue at their institution.

It was after completing my engineering that I fully committed to professional badminton. From the beginning, I had a deep passion for doubles over singles. With complete dedication and the support of many people, I began to grow. One key influence has been the Cuntapay Badminton Academy in Switzerland, headed by Donovan Cuntapay. I met him eight years ago, and he has since become like family—his support has been instrumental in my growth.

I went on to achieve a career-high world ranking of 71 in men’s doubles with my partner Vasantha Kumar H.R. In the last three years, I shifted my focus to mixed doubles and currently train at Arise Badminton Academy in Bangalore under coach Vaibhaav—who also happens to be my doubles partner. With Amrutha P. as my partner in mixed doubles, we’ve achieved a career-best world ranking of 41.

Today, my parents—Suresha and Prabha—are fully supportive of my professional journey. My brother, Suprith Surya, stands beside me like a pillar. He’s living his dreams through me, and I’m truly blessed to have him. There are also countless well-wishers whose support keeps me going, even though I can’t name them all. Their belief in me fuels my desire to achieve more.

2. Why did you choose doubles over singles?

From the very beginning, I’ve had a love for doubles. It’s fast-paced, dynamic, and full of action—which suits my style perfectly.

3. What’s been your most memorable match so far?

My first international medal. I was standing on the podium as the national anthem played—it gave me goosebumps. That feeling was indescribable, and from that moment on, I just wanted to achieve more.

4. How do you stay sharp throughout the season?

Staying consistent requires proper planning—whether it's for tournaments, training routines, nutrition, or hydration. Discipline in all these areas keeps me focused and prepared.

5. What qualities are most important for success in doubles?

You need solid power, explosiveness, agility, and sharp reflexes. A strong attack-and-defense balance is key. Also, communication and chemistry with your partner matter just as much as individual skill.

6. What’s your advice to young Indian players?

My message to young athletes is simple—keep working hard, no matter how long it takes for the results to come. Don’t give up. These days, I often see pairs splitting up after just two or three tournaments because the results don’t come quickly. But I believe that’s not how doubles works. You need to stay committed to one partner for at least a year. Work on your partnership, trust the process, and the results will follow.

7. If you played another sport, what would it be?

Probably basketball. But honestly, I love playing all kinds of sports. I’m passionate about giving my 100%—no matter what the game is.

Bio:

Ashith Surya is a professional Indian badminton player, currently ranked World No. 41 in Mixed Doubles. Hailing from Belur in Karnataka, Ashith’s journey began on outdoor clay courts with limited resources and limitless passion. Over the years, he has emerged as a formidable force in Indian badminton, with a national ranking of 4 and a state ranking of 1.

Known for his explosive agility and strategic finesse in doubles, Ashith has represented India in prestigious tournaments across the globe. His career is studded with medals—including gold at the 2025 National Games (team event), 2024 Sri Lanka International Challenge (Mixed Doubles), and 2018 Ghana International Series (Mixed Doubles). He has also clinched podium finishes in events like the Raipur International Challenge, Hyderabad Challenge, and the Infosys International Challenge.

With over a dozen national and international medals to his name, Ashith is not only a symbol of sporting excellence but also a story of resilience, family sacrifice, and relentless pursuit of greatness. Training under top coaches at Arise Badminton Academy in Bangalore, he continues to rise, aiming for higher global rankings and inspiring the next generation of Indian shuttlers.

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Interviewed by: Impu Rao

Edited by: Shantanu Singh