Kidambi Srikanth Upset with Controversial Umpire Decision At Taipei Open

Kidambi Srikanth was left frustrated after a controversial defeat in the second round of the Taipei Open 2025, held at Taipei Arena, Taiwan.

The Indian badminton star suffered a key umpire decision during a tense third game while facing compatriot Ayush Shetty. With the score tied at 15-14, the umpire ruled that Srikanth’s racket had touched a shuttle that clearly landed outside the line — handing the point to Shetty in a pivotal moment.

The decision swung momentum in Shetty’s favor, ultimately resulting in Srikanth’s defeat with scores of 16-21, 21-15, 17-21.

Srikanth voiced his disappointment on Instagram, stating:

“BWF needs to rethink how they select match umpires. Someone so incompetent like him should never be placed in a position where they determine the outcome.”

The incident highlights ongoing concerns over officiating in badminton. Just last week, the Indonesian team faced a similar controversy in their match against Denmark during the Sudirman Cup 2025.