Rohit Bhandiye
PANAJI
Few Goan shuttlers can claim to have broken among top-100 in BWF World Badminton Rankings in their entire career. But, at just 16, young Aarush Pawaskar has achieved this feat by breaking into the global top-100 of the Badminton World Federation (BWF) under-19 Men’s Singles rankings.
Following an impressive leap of 28 spots, Aarush secured world No. 89 ranking in the under-19 category with 3,790 points, driven by his stellar performances on the European junior circuit. His recent international campaign featured hard-fought battles against top European competitors, showcasing his resilience and ability to perform under pressure on the global stage.
Far from being content with this breakthrough, the teenager remains intensely focused on his upcoming targets.
"Breaking into the top-100 in the under-19 category at 16 is an encouraging step, but it is just the beginning. My goal is to keep raising the bar and push into the world top-50 by end of this year. I also want to win many titles and make Goa and India proud," a visibly excited Aarush told The Goan.
The 16-year-old’s breakthrough comes on the back of an impressive European campaign, including a bronze medal at the Victor Bulgarian Junior Open International 2026, where he won four of his five matches and stunned second seed and world no. 21 Teodor Mitev of Bulgaria in a thrilling three-game encounter.
The achievement adds to Aarush’s growing international credentials following his silver medal at the prestigious France Open under-17 in 2025.
To take his training and tactical acumen to the next level, Aarush recently joined Simply Sports Badminton Academy in Bengaluru, training under the guidance of former Olympian and National Champion Arvind Bhat. Aarush’s strong foundational athletic and technical development was shaped under another Bengaluru-based coach Uttsav Mishra, who played an instrumental role in guiding him through his early competitive years at the Lakshyan Sports Academy.
Aarush's parents credited his relentless work ethic for the achievement.
“Aarush’s discipline on the court, rigorous training schedule, and deep passion for the sport continue to drive his rapid progress,” said Aarush’s father, Sandesh Pawaskar, a former state-level badminton player who has represented Goa.
Aarush’s journey has been deeply empowered by the Goa Badminton Association (GBA). Under the leadership of President Manoj Patil, Secretary Praveen Shenoy, and Sandeep Heble, the GBA has stood as a formidable pillar of support, playing a pivotal role in creating international pathways for the Goan talent.
“Aarush’s rise to the BWF U-19 World Top-90 at just 16, following a national quarter-final finish and two international medals, is a tremendous achievement and a matter of great pride for Goa. His progress reflects his hard work and commitment, and I am confident that these international successes are only the beginning of many more laurels for Goa and India,” Manoj Patil, President, Goa Badminton Association said.
Aarush and his family also extended heartfelt gratitude to prominent industrialist and patron of Goan sports, Shrinivas Dempo, Chairman, Dempo Group of Companies, whose unwavering belief, mentorship, and support throughout the journey has served as a vital source of inspiration. Aarush also serves as a goodwill brand ambassador for Goa Carbon Limited.
With this milestone now secured, Aarush turns his attention back to rigorous training and upcoming international fixtures as he builds momentum toward the rest of the 2026 season.
