New Delhi, March 17: President Pranab Mukherjee on Tuesday congratulated shuttler Kidambi Srikanth for winning Swiss Open Grand Prix Gold men’s singles title in Basel.

Srikanth defeated defensive champion Viktor Axelsen of Denmark in 3 games on Sunday to win his 1st title of 2015. He can next play at the India Open Super Series in New Delhi from March twenty four to twenty nine.

“Hearty congratulations and best needs on your winning Swiss Open Grand Prix Gold Championship in badminton. because the 1st Indian (male) to win this title, you have got set a new benchmark of success for badminton players,” said the president.

“The whole country joins your family and you in celebrating this exceptional achievement. I expect to your winning for India more such laurels within the future.”

Saina Nehwal had also won the women’s singles title in 2011 and 2012 within the same tournament.