Kidambi Srikanth, Kiran George Added to India Open 2025 Draw After Seeded Player Withdrawals

Former world No. 1 Kidambi Srikanth and Kiran George have been included in the men’s singles draw for the India Open 2025 following the late withdrawals of top seed Shi Yuqi (China) and eighth seed Anthony Ginting (Indonesia).

The updated draw reflects new Badminton World Federation (BWF) rules, which mandate a reshuffling to prevent lopsided quarters when seeded players withdraw.

In the revised lineup, 2022 champion Lakshya Sen moves into Ginting’s spot and will now face Lin Chun Yi (Chinese Taipei) in the first round. Srikanth takes on Hong Yang Weng (China), while Kiran George begins his campaign against Japan’s Yushi Tanaka.

Srikanth’s Return to Super 750 Events

The India Open marks Srikanth’s return to a Super 750 event after last competing at this level in May 2024 at the Singapore Open. With his world ranking slipping to No. 41 due to form and fitness issues, he no longer qualifies automatically for top-tier events. This late entry offers him a chance to prove his current level of play.

Women’s Singles Draw Adjustments

In the women’s draw, PV Sindhu, originally set to face Anupama Upadhyaya, has now been moved to Busnan Ongbamrungphan’s position. Sindhu will face Shuo Yun Sung (Chinese Taipei) in her opening match.

An all-Indian clash remains in the first round, with Anupama now up against promising youngster Rakshita Sree Santosh Ramraj.

Sindhu’s redraw places her in the same quarter as Gregoria Mariska Tunjung, setting up a potential quarterfinal showdown. Should she advance, a blockbuster semifinal against world No. 1 An Se Young could await, promising an electrifying contest for home fans.