Although Rajawat has a stunning aggressive style that includes a spectacular stick smash and a multitude of cunning moves, the greatest players can withstand the tedium of a protracted rally.
The defeats he sustains in 2024 against teams all around the world, notably HS Prannoy in Delhi this past week, will shield Priyanshu Rajawat from the illusion of unavoidable victory that befalls young, exceptionally gifted Indians. While his victory over Lakshya Sen is the encouraging result (as well as the season’s first win) that assures him he has what it takes to achieve internationally with the same extraordinary talent.
The young player, who turns 22 in two weeks, is expected to keep Sen and Kidambi Srikanth on their toes during the Olympic qualification season, stumbling at times and strutting at others. He needs enormous points to move up to the Top 16 at World No. 30. However, he is one of just three shuttlers in the Top 30 who had participated in 17 or fewer tournaments the year prior. He can plot the unlikeliest of surges if his ankle and back hold up and he manages to play most of the next 8 qualification tournaments. The fact that he is free to play and is not anticipated to reach Paris is advantageous.
