National Games 2025: Anmol Kharb Wins Gold in Badminton Thriller
Satish Karunakaran won the gold medal in the men’s singles after Lakshya Sen pulled out of the competition on Monday.
Rising badminton star Anmol Kharb delivered a stunning performance at the National Games 2025, defeating top seed Anupama Upadhyaya in straight sets to secure the women’s singles gold in Uttarakhand on Tuesday.
The 18-year-old from Haryana outplayed world No. 43 Anupama 21-16, 22-20 in a hard-fought final at the Multi-Purpose Hall, Parade Ground, Dehradun.
Anmol, who first made waves by winning the national championship at just 16 in 2023, gained further recognition last year after playing a key role in India’s historic gold medal win at the 2024 Badminton Asia Team Championships in Malaysia. She impressed throughout the tournament, taking down higher-ranked and more experienced opponents to help India to victory.
Her stellar 2024 season also included titles at the Belgian and Polish Internationals and a runner-up finish at the Guwahati Masters Super 100.
Before securing gold, Anmol defeated another experienced player, Tasnim Mir, in the semi-finals.
Satish Karunakaran Dominates Men’s Singles
In the men’s singles final, top seed Satish Karunakaran overcame a strong challenge from 16-year-old Suryaksh Rawat, winning 21-17, 21-17.
Home favorite Lakshya Sen, expected to be a top contender, withdrew from the competition on Monday.
More Badminton Gold for Karunakaran
Karunakaran wasn’t done yet—he also clinched gold in mixed doubles, teaming up with Aadya Variyath to defeat Deep Rambhiya and Akshaya Warang in a thrilling 21-11, 20-22, 21-8 final at the 38th National Games.
Doubles Champions
In men’s doubles, the pair of Nithin HV and Prakash Raj S secured gold after defeating Vaibhav and Ashith Surya 21-16, 21-14.
Meanwhile, Karnataka’s Shikha Gautam and Ashwini Bhat claimed the women’s doubles title, beating Angel Punera and Anya Bisht 21-11, 21-13 in a one-sided final.
Who won the women’s singles gold medal at the National Games 2025?
Anmol Kharb won the gold medal in the women’s singles event by defeating Anupama Upadhyaya in straight sets (21-16, 22-20).
How old is Anmol Kharb?
Anmol Kharb is 18 years old.
Where was the badminton event held?
The matches were played at the Multi-Purpose Hall, Parade Ground, Dehradun, Uttarakhand.
What other achievements does Anmol Kharb have?
.Won the National Championship in 2023 at just 16 years old.
.Played a key role in India’s historic gold medal win at the 2024 Badminton Asia.Team Championships in Malaysia.
.Won Belgian and Polish Internationals in 2024.
.Finished runner-up at the Guwahati Masters Super 100 in December 2024.
Who won the men’s singles gold medal?
Satish Karunakaran defeated Suryaksh Rawat (21-17, 21-17) to win the men’s singles gold.
Why did Lakshya Sen withdraw from the competition?
Star shuttler Lakshya Sen pulled out of the men’s singles competition on Monday, but no official reason was mentioned.
Who won the mixed doubles event?
The gold medal in mixed doubles went to Satish Karunakaran and Aadya Variyath, who beat Deep Rambhiya and Akshaya Warang (21-11, 20-22, 21-8).
Who won the men’s doubles and women’s doubles titles?
. Men’s Doubles Gold: Nithin HV and Prakash Raj S defeated Vaibhav and Ashith Surya (21-16, 21-14).
. Women’s Doubles Gold: Shikha Gautam and Ashwini Bhat beat Angel Punera and Anya Bisht (21-11, 21-13).
What is the National Games?
The National Games of India is a multi-sport event held every four years, featuring top athletes from across the country competing in various disciplines.
Conclusion
Anmol Kharb, the 17-year-old Indian badminton prodigy, has been making waves in the badminton world with her remarkable performances. In 2024, she clinched her first international singles title at the Belgian International, defeating Denmark’s Amalie Schulz in a thrilling final. She followed this success by securing the Polish International title, further solidifying her reputation as a rising star in the sport.
Earlier in 2024, Kharb played a pivotal role in India’s historic gold medal at the Badminton Asia Team Championships. She delivered decisive victories in crucial matches, including wins over higher-ranked opponents, showcasing her mental fortitude and skill.
As of February 2025, Kharb holds a career-high BWF world ranking of 66, reflecting her rapid ascent in the international badminton arena. While there is no specific information available regarding her participation or performance in the National Games 2025, her recent achievements underscore her growing prominence in the sport.