Lakshya Sen has etched his name in Indian sporting history by becoming the first Indian male shuttler to reach the men’s singles semi-finals at the Olympics. In a thrilling quarterfinal encounter that lasted 70 minutes, Sen overcame the challenge of China’s Chou Chen in a hard-fought three-game battle.
The opening game was a closely contested affair, with both players trading blows. However, Chen managed to snatch the game 21-19. Undeterred, Sen regrouped and dominated the second game, winning it 21-15.
In the decisive third game, Sen showcased his exceptional skills and tactical prowess. He controlled the pace of the game, forcing Chen into errors and dictating the rallies. With a commanding 21-12 victory, Sen sealed his place in the semi-finals.
Sen’s historic achievement marks a significant milestone for Indian badminton. He joins the illustrious company of Saina Nehwal and PV Sindhu, who have previously reached the Olympic semi-finals in women’s singles. Sindhu is the only Indian shuttler to have played in an Olympic final, winning a silver medal in 2016.
In the semi-finals, Sen will face the winner of the match between top seed Viktor Axelsen of Denmark and Singapore’s Loh Kean Yew. Axelsen is the reigning world champion and a strong contender for the gold medal, while Yew is a rising star who has impressed with his performances in recent tournaments.
Sen’s journey to the semi-finals has been marked by resilience and determination. He has overcome tough opponents and challenging conditions to reach this historic milestone. His success is a testament to his hard work, talent, and the unwavering support of his coaches and team.
As the Indian contingent continues its quest for medals at the Tokyo Olympics, Lakshya Sen’s achievement has ignited a wave of excitement and pride across the nation. His historic run has inspired countless young athletes and badminton enthusiasts, and his legacy will continue to inspire future generations.
