Sumit Nagal’s quarterfinal exit sealed the fate, leaving fans stunned. The last medal came in 2018, and since then, even top doubles pairs like Yuki Bhambri and Sriram Balaji couldn’t break the drought. With Nagal turning 33 by the next Asiad, the clock is ticking. Coach Ashutosh Singh admitted the team gave their all, but the gap between India and Asia’s elite is widening. The real problem? Lack of deep, consistent pipeline of talent. If India wants to reclaim its place, building from juniors up; not just propping up veterans; is the only way forward. The next generation can’t wait.