Ashmita Chaliha clinches Korea Masters with grit and glory.

Assam shuttler scripts a remarkable comeback to secure her maiden BWF World Tour crown.

Ashmita Chaliha delivered the performance of her career at the Victor Korea Masters 2026, capturing her first-ever BWF World Tour title after a thrilling three-game battle against China’s Han Qian Xi. The 26-year-old from Assam showcased resilience and determination, overturning a shaky start to emerge victorious with a 14-21, 21-14, 21-14 scoreline in just under an hour.

The final began with Han, the fourth seed and world No. 35, dictating the pace. Her sharp control and early dominance left Chaliha struggling to find her rhythm, as the Indian conceded the opening game. However, the setback only fuelled her fighting spirit. In the second game, Chaliha unleashed her attacking strokes, forcing Han onto the defensive. Her aggressive rallies and precise shot-making helped her level the contest, setting the stage for a decider.

The third game was a test of nerves. Both players exchanged points in the early stages, but Chaliha’s composure and tactical adjustments proved decisive. At 12-11, she struck a winner close to the line, sparking a surge of momentum. Stretching for every shuttle and capitalizing on Han’s errors, she built a commanding lead. A cross-court smash pushed her to 19-14, and moments later, Han’s misjudged return sealed the match in Chaliha’s favour.

This triumph is particularly significant given Chaliha’s recent struggles with injury. She had endured a three-month layoff earlier in the year due to a knee tear, returning to the circuit only in May. Since then, she has steadily rebuilt her form, highlighted by a semi-final run at the Macau Open. Training under Park Tae-Sang at the National Centre of Excellence in Guwahati, Chaliha’s perseverance has now culminated in her biggest career milestone.

Her victory also adds to India’s growing presence in women’s singles badminton. Just a week earlier, Tanvi Sharma lifted the Taipei Open, giving India back-to-back titles on the BWF Tour. For Chaliha, the Korea Masters crown is not only a personal breakthrough but also a testament to the rising depth of Indian badminton.

With this win, Ashmita Chaliha has firmly announced her arrival on the global stage, proving that setbacks are only stepping stones to greater success. Her comeback story will inspire many young athletes striving to make their mark in the sport.