Indian star shuttler Kidambi Srikanth is new World No. 1

Kidambi Srikanth reached the top of men's singles rankings with 76895 points in the Badminton World Federation (BWF) chart which was released today. He became the first Indian shuttler to achieve the number one rank in the modern ranking system. Though legendary Indian shuttler Prakash Padukone had reached the number one spot in 1980 but at that time computerized ranking system was not implemented.

25-year-old Srikanth displaced Denmark’s Victor Axelsento be atop of BWF world rankings and became only the second Indian after Saina Nehwal, who had occupied the women's top spot in 2015.

Srikanth defeated three-time Olympic silver medallist Lee Chong Wei in straight games in the crucial mixed team final to clinch gold at the 21st Commonwealth Games, Gold Coast.

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"I'm definitely delighted to have achieved the World No. 1 ranking for the first time, and to become the first Indian man after Prakash sir to achieve this," said Srikanth.

Srikanth thanked his mentor, coaches and family, said, "It's a testament to the hard work of Gopi sir, my family, my other coaches and support staff, my team GoSports Foundation, my sponsors, and everyone else who has believed in me over the years."

"It's been a great year, but I have many more goals, and right now, my focus is on coming good at the big events and achieving many more milestones. The Commonwealth Games is on, and this year also holds the Asian Games," he further added.

Recently in February, he was crowned Sportsperson of the Year at the third Mahindra Scorpio Times of India Sports Awards (TOISA).

"My target is also to do my country proud at the Tokyo Olympics in two years' time. I thank everyone for believing in me, and hope to inspire many other Indians to keep striving in their pursuit of excellence," added Srikanth who is looking forward to winning his first individual medal at the ongoing CWG.