Sandhya Melasheemi emerged as the standout performer for Goa, clinching a remarkable double crown in the Women’s 40+ category at the Yonex-Sunrise 48th Indian Masters (Veteran) National Badminton Championships, powered by Raisoni Foundation at Navelim, Goa.
The former Goa State champion and international medalist displayed exceptional composure and fighting spirit to win the Women’s Singles 40+ title, overcoming Smarika Manhas (KTK) 21-19, 13-21, 21-11 in a gripping final. She further added to her tally by winning the Women’s Doubles 40+ crown, partnering Radhika Madhur Ingalhalikar (MAH), with a convincing 21-18, 21-13 victory over Lalduhzuali (MIZ) and Prathana Thapa (NAG), capping off a memorable campaign for Goa.
Among other prominent performances, Swati Sharma (UTR) completed a double crown in Women’s Singles 35+ and Women’s Doubles 35+, while Mohamed Rehan R. (TN) also achieved a double by winning Men’s Doubles 35 and Mixed Doubles 35+ titles. In the 40+ category, Harshad Bhagwat (MAH) clinched the Men’s Singles title, while Mayank Behal (PNB) and Manish Rawat (DLI) secured the Men’s Doubles crown.
In the 50+ category, India international Jaison Xavier (KER) dominated to win the Men’s Singles title, while Pradeep Kumar K.S. (KER) completed a double crown in Mixed Doubles 50 and Men’s Doubles 50.
Other notable winners included Pooja Mehta (GUJ) in Women’s Singles 45+ and Arup Baidya (WB), who claimed the Mixed Doubles 45+ title, as Phase two of the championship concluded with high-quality performances across 35+ to 50+ age groups. PWD Minister Digambar Kamat graced the closing function among others.
