Indian Badminton Player Sathish Karunakaran Takes Unconventional Path to Success
Training in Malaysia for Excellence in Singles and Doubles
While most of India’s top badminton players opt to train in Hyderabad or Bengaluru, Sathish Karunakaran, a double gold medallist at the National Games, is carving his path to success by pursuing excellence in both mixed doubles and singles in Malaysia.
Recently, Sathish made headlines by clinching two gold medals at the National Games. His first gold came in the mixed team event, where he partnered with Aadya Variyath. Not stopping there, Sathish returned to the court a few hours later and secured his second gold medal by defeating the talented youngster Suyaksh Rawat in the men’s singles final at Dehradun’s Parade Ground.
Competing at an elite level in both singles and doubles categories is a rare feat, but Sathish has embraced this challenge wholeheartedly. Currently ranked 44th in the BWF men’s singles rankings and 32nd in the mixed doubles rankings, Sathish is determined to break barriers and make a mark in international badminton.
Embracing an Unconventional Journey
Sathish’s journey to success has been far from conventional. While many top Indian talents train at renowned academies in Hyderabad or Bengaluru, Sathish has chosen a different route by training in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, under former Malaysian national team coach Jivanathan Nair.
Training under Coach Jivanathan for nearly 10 months, Sathish and Aadya have found a supportive environment that believes in excelling in both mixed doubles and singles. This unique approach has set them apart and motivated them to strive for unprecedented success in the sport.
International Training and Competition
Sathish’s association with Coach Jivanathan dates back to his teenage years when he attended a training camp in Malaysia in 2018. The fruitful experience led him to relocate to Malaysia early last year with the goal of honing his skills and competing at a higher level.
Training in Kuala Lumpur has provided Sathish and Aadya with invaluable opportunities to spar with world-class players and enhance their game. The rigorous training regime, coupled with exposure to top players like Goh Soon Huat, Shevon Jemie Lai, and Goh V Shem, has significantly elevated their performance and prepared them for upcoming competitive tournaments.
Future Aspirations and Goals
Looking ahead, Sathish aims to continue improving his game and climbing the ranks in international badminton. While focusing on mixed doubles in upcoming tournaments like the Asian Championships, All England, and German Open, he remains dedicated to keeping his singles game sharp and achieving success in both categories.
With a strong determination and unwavering commitment to excellence, Sathish Karunakaran is set to make waves in the world of badminton and inspire aspiring players to pursue their dreams relentlessly.
Breaking Stereotypes in Badminton Training
Sathish Karunakaran’s decision to train in Malaysia instead of the traditional badminton hubs in India challenges the conventional norms surrounding player development in the sport. While Hyderabad and Bengaluru have been the go-to destinations for aspiring shuttlers, Sathish’s success story highlights the importance of exploring alternative paths to achieve excellence.
By immersing himself in the competitive badminton scene of Kuala Lumpur, Sathish has gained a unique perspective on the sport. The exposure to different training methodologies, playing styles, and competition formats has broadened his horizons and equipped him with a diverse skill set that sets him apart from his peers.
Adapting to Different Playing Formats
One of the key advantages of training in Malaysia is the emphasis on excelling in both singles and doubles formats. While many players specialize in either singles or doubles, Sathish’s versatility allows him to thrive in both categories. This adaptability not only makes him a formidable opponent on the court but also enhances his overall understanding of the game.
Mastering the intricacies of mixed doubles requires a unique set of skills compared to singles play. The ability to strategize, communicate effectively with a partner, and maintain a strong net game are essential components of success in the doubles format. By honing his skills in both singles and mixed doubles, Sathish showcases his adaptability and versatility as a player.
Building a Strong Support System
Training under the guidance of Coach Jivanathan Nair has been instrumental in Sathish’s journey towards success. The mentorship, expertise, and personalized training programs provided by Coach Jivanathan have played a crucial role in shaping Sathish’s development as a player.
In addition to his coach, Sathish’s partnership with Aadya Variyath in mixed doubles has been a source of strength and motivation. The synergy between the two players, both on and off the court, contributes to their success as a team. The camaraderie, trust, and mutual respect they share create a solid foundation for achieving their shared goals in badminton.
Striving for International Recognition
As Sathish sets his sights on international tournaments like the Asian Championships, All England, and German Open, his ambition to make a mark on the global badminton stage grows stronger. The exposure gained from competing against top-ranked players in Malaysia has prepared him for the challenges that lie ahead in international competitions.
By aiming to break into the top ranks of the BWF men’s singles and mixed doubles categories, Sathish is not only raising the bar for Indian badminton but also inspiring a new generation of players to dream big and pursue excellence with passion and dedication.
Conclusion
Sathish Karunakaran’s unconventional path to success in badminton serves as a testament to the power of perseverance, adaptability, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. By daring to chart his course outside the traditional training hubs and embracing the challenges of excelling in both singles and mixed doubles, Sathish has carved a unique niche for himself in the world of badminton.
As he continues to push the boundaries of his potential and strive for international recognition, Sathish embodies the spirit of a true competitor who is unafraid to challenge norms, break stereotypes, and make his mark on the global stage of badminton.
