US Open 2026: Indian Shuttlers Shine as Tanvi, Devika, Srikanth Advance To Next Round

Indian shuttlers made a strong start at the US Open 2026 in Fullerton on Wednesday, with several players progressing to the next round after convincing victories in their respective matches.

Leading the charge was World Junior Championships silver medallist Tanvi Sharma, who overcame Germany's Yvonne Li in straight games. The young Indian displayed composure in a closely contested opening game before sealing a 23-21, 21-16 victory to move into the next round of the women's singles competition.

Joining her in the second round was Thailand Masters champion Devika Sihag, who produced an equally impressive performance against Peru's Ines Lucia Castillo. Devika controlled the match from the outset and wrapped up a comfortable 21-14, 21-14 win to continue her promising season.

The men's singles draw featured two all-Indian encounters, with emerging talent Rounak Chouhan getting the better of former World Junior Championships silver medallist S Sankar Muthusamy. Rounak edged a tight opening game before pulling away in the second to secure a 23-21, 21-16 victory.

Fifth seed Kidambi Srikanth also began his campaign in dominant fashion. The experienced Indian needed just 30 minutes to dispatch compatriot D Saneeth, winning 21-14, 21-12. Srikanth's efficient display underlined his credentials as one of the title contenders in the tournament.

There was more success for India in the women's singles event as Rakshitha Sree advanced with a commanding victory over Czech Republic's Tereza Svabikova. Rakshitha looked in complete control throughout the contest, registering a 21-15, 21-8 win to book her place in the next round.

India also enjoyed success in mixed doubles, where the seventh-seeded pairing of Dhruv Rawat and K Maneesha progressed after defeating Indonesia's Wirawan Ihsan Adam and Serena Kani. The Indian duo required only 26 minutes to complete a 21-15, 21-16 victory and move forward in the competition.

The strong opening-day performances highlighted India's depth across categories, with established stars and rising talents alike making positive starts to their campaigns. With Tanvi, Devika, Srikanth, Rounak, Rakshitha, and the mixed doubles pair of Rawat and Maneesha all advancing, the Indian contingent will look to build on the momentum as the tournament progresses in Fullerton.