The China Open Super Series Premier in November 2014 served as a breakthrough for Srikanth Kidambi, who defeated five-time world champion Lin Dan in straight games to become the first Indian male to claim a Super Series Premier singles title. This achievement catalyzed a career defined by rapid elevation through the international rankings and record-breaking tournament performances.
Formative Years and Junior Competition
Born on 7 February 1993 in Ravulapalem, Andhra Pradesh, Kidambi grew up in a Telugu family with his father, KVS Krishna, and his mother, Radha. His brother, K. Nandagopal, pursued badminton alongside him, with both achieving junior national success. In 2008, Kidambi moved to the Gopichand Academy to focus on professional development. By 2011, he secured bronze in men's doubles and silver in mixed doubles at the Commonwealth Youth Games held in the Isle of Man.
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Kidambi established himself in the senior circuit by winning the 2013 Thailand Open Grand Prix Gold and his first national title in Delhi. Following his 2014 Super Series Premier success, he reached the semi-finals of the BWF Super Series Masters Finals. By 2017, his performance peaked with victories at the Indonesia, Australian, Denmark, and French Super Series. These results propelled him to a career-high world ranking of two, and in April 2018, he became the first Indian male to achieve the world number one ranking since Prakash Padukone.
International Milestones
In 2021, he attained another historical milestone by becoming the first Indian male to reach the final of the BWF World Championships, earning a silver medal. This momentum continued into 2022, when he captained the Indian men's team to their first-ever title at the Thomas Cup.
Fast facts
- Born: 7 February 1993, Ravulapalem
- Citizenship: India
- Occupation: Badminton player
- Arjuna Award recipient: 2015
- Olympic participation: 2016
- Thomas Cup win: 2022
Questions readers ask
When did Srikanth Kidambi reach the world number one ranking?
He achieved the world number one ranking in April 2018.
What significant team achievement did he lead in 2022?
He captained the Indian team that won their first-ever Thomas Cup title.
