Journey from injury to Int’l triumph: CG’s Ishaan clinches gold at Iran Fajr Challenge 2025

Raipur: Chhattisgarh's shuttler Ishaan Bhatnagar's journey to gold at the 33rd Iran Fajr International Challenge 2025 is a story of resilience and triumph over adversity. Ishan won gold at Badminton tournament held at Iran by securing victory. Bhatnagar and his mixed doubles partner, Srinidhi Narayanan, defeated Turkey's Emre Sonmez and Yasemen Bektas 21-16, 17-21, 21-14 in the final.
In Feb 2023, Bhatnagar's badminton career was put on hold after a significant injury sustained during the national tournament in Pune. What followed was an arduous 18-month rehabilitation process, a period that tested his resolve but ultimately forged an even stronger athlete.
"This challenging period, although tough, was instrumental in making me stronger and more determined to excel in international competitions," Bhatnagar shared. His words ring true, as his victory in Iran proves.
Competing in the mixed doubles category, Ishan showcased not only his skill but also the unwavering determination he cultivated during his recovery. The Iran Fajr International Challenge, held from Jan 28th to Feb 2nd, 2025, became the stage for his remarkable comeback. His path to the final included a string of impressive victories.
Earlier in the tournament, Ishaan and Srinidhi defeated Bugra Aktas and Sinem Yildiz (Turkey) in straight sets 21-18, 21-19 in the Round of 16. They then overcame a tough challenge from India's Dhiren Ayyappan and Taabia Khan in the quarterfinals, winning a three-set thriller 22-24, 22-20, 21-10. In the semifinals, they continued their winning streak, defeating the second-seeded Indian pair of Ayush Agrawal and Shruti Mishra 21-15, 21-19.
"This achievement not only marks a personal milestone but also stands as a testament to the fact that adversity can be overcome with perseverance and unwavering commitment," he said. His journey from injury to international champion serves as an inspiration to athletes everywhere.