India’s Olympic badminton gold medal hopes were shattered on Sunday as Lakshya Sen succumbed to a valiant defeat against reigning champion Viktor Axelsen of Denmark. Despite a spirited performance, Sen fell short with scores of 20-22, 14-21. However, the 22-year-old Indian shuttler still has a chance to make history by securing a men’s singles medal in the bronze medal match against Malaysia’s Lee Zii Jia.
Sen’s match against Axelsen was a testament to his growing prowess and determination. The first game was a nail-biter, with both players showcasing their exceptional skills. Sen initially trailed but adapted his strategy, engaging in long rallies and displaying patience and precision. Despite Axelsen’s uncharacteristic errors, the Danish champion displayed his resilience, saving three game points to snatch the victory 22-20.
The second game saw Sen start strongly, building a 7-0 lead as Axelsen struggled to find his rhythm. However, the Danish shuttler, known for his mental fortitude, mounted an impressive comeback. With a combination of solid defense, drop shots, and high smashes, Axelsen leveled the score at 10-10. Despite Sen’s mid-game advantage, Axelsen eventually wore down the Indian shuttler, securing the game 21-14 and clinching his place in the Olympic final for the second time.
Axelsen’s victory highlighted his experience and mental toughness, proving why he is a dominant force in the BWF circuit. Sen’s Olympic journey is not over yet; he has the opportunity to secure India’s first men’s singles medal in badminton when he faces Lee Zii Jia in the bronze medal match on Monday. His match takes place at 6PM IST. Sen has a chance to become the third Indian Olympic medallist in badminton after PV Sindhu (silver in Rio 2016, bronze in Tokyo 2020) and Saina Nehwal (bronze in London 2012).
Axelsen, meanwhile, will face Kunlavut Vitidsarn of Thailand, who defeated Jia in straight games (21-14, 21-15). Interestingly, Vitidsarn has earlier defeated Axelsen in last year’s India Open final, clinching a 22-20, 10-21, 21-12 win in a three-game thriller in New Delhi.
