Lakshya Sen's Resurgence: From Lean Patch to Olympic Qualification

Lakshya Sen’s Resurgence: From Lean Patch to Olympic Qualification

Lakshya Sen’s career took a downturn in the latter half of 2022, with a string of early exits and a split from coach Anup Sridhar. His Olympic qualification chances seemed bleak as he slipped in the rankings. However, the 22-year-old has staged a remarkable turnaround, reaching the semi-finals of both the French Open and All England Open this month.

Sen attributes his resurgence to changes in training, including increased court time and focus on specific strokes and variations. He also credits the guidance of coaches Prakash Padukone and U Vimal Kumar, who have instilled confidence and discipline in him.

Despite the lean patch, Sen remained determined and trusted the process. He worked tirelessly to improve his fitness and technical skills, and the results are now evident. He acknowledges that he is still not at his peak but believes he is close to playing at his best.

The presence of Padukone and Kumar as coaches has been a significant factor in Sen’s recent success. Their experience and positive reinforcement have boosted his confidence and helped him navigate tough matches. They have also ensured that he remains disciplined and focused off the court.

Looking ahead, Sen is confident about India’s chances of defending the Thomas Cup title. He believes the team has the strength to beat any opponent and is determined to give their best.

Kidambi Srikanth's Swiss Open Journey Ends in Semi-Final Defeat

Kidambi Srikanth’s Swiss Open Journey Ends in Semi-Final Defeat

Kidambi Srikanth’s Swiss Open 2024 campaign ended in disappointment as the Indian badminton star succumbed to a hard-fought defeat in the men’s singles semi-finals. Facing world No. 22 Lin Chun-Yi of Chinese Taipei, Srikanth displayed flashes of brilliance but ultimately fell short in a thrilling three-game encounter.

The match began with Srikanth asserting his dominance, showcasing his trademark offensive smashes and deft net play to secure the opening game 21-15. However, Chun-Yi responded with a vengeance in the second game, swiftly turning a 4-1 deficit into a 6-5 lead. The Chinese Taipei shuttler then unleashed a devastating run of seven consecutive points, leaving Srikanth trailing 12-6. Despite a late surge, Srikanth could not recover, losing the game 9-21.

The decider proved to be a nail-biting affair, with both players trading blows. Chun-Yi seized an early 4-1 advantage, but Srikanth fought back to establish a narrow 11-10 lead at the interval. The game remained fiercely contested until the closing stages, when Chun-Yi broke away with three straight points to take a 19-16 lead. Srikanth’s unforced errors proved costly, allowing Chun-Yi to seal the victory 21-18.

Srikanth’s exit marked the end of India’s challenge at the Swiss Open. Priyanshu Rajawat and Kiran George bowed out in the quarterfinals, while Treesa Jolly and Gayatri Gopichand also failed to progress. PV Sindhu’s campaign ended in the second round of the women’s singles.

Despite the setback, Srikanth’s performance at the Swiss Open was a testament to his enduring quality. The former world number one remains a formidable force on the international circuit and will be determined to bounce back stronger in future tournaments.

Kidambi Srikanth Reaches Swiss Open Semifinals, Lone Indian Survivor

Kidambi Srikanth Reaches Swiss Open Semifinals, Lone Indian Survivor

Star Indian shuttler Kidambi Srikanth has emerged as the lone Indian survivor at the Swiss Open Super 300 badminton tournament, advancing to the semifinals with a convincing straight-game victory over Chinese Taipei’s Chia Hao Lee in Basel.

Srikanth, who has been struggling for form this season, finally found his rhythm in the quarterfinals, dominating Lee 21-10, 21-14 in just 35 minutes. This marks his first semifinal appearance in 16 months, since the Hylo Open in November 2022.

The 2021 world championships silver medalist will now face Chinese Taipei’s world no. 22 Lin Chun-Yi in the semifinals on Saturday.

Meanwhile, Kiran George’s valiant effort came to a heartbreaking end in the quarterfinals, as he narrowly lost to Denmark’s Rasmus Gemke 23-21, 17-21, 15-21. Another promising Indian, Priyanshu Rajawat, also bowed out in the quarterfinals, falling to Chou Tien Chen of Chinese Taipei 15-21, 19-21.

Srikanth’s victory is a much-needed boost for Indian badminton, which has been facing a slump in recent months. The shuttler will be hoping to continue his momentum and secure a spot in the final, where he could potentially face world no. 1 Viktor Axelsen of Denmark.

India Drawn in Tough Thomas Cup Group, Faces China in Uber Cup

India Drawn in Tough Thomas Cup Group, Faces China in Uber Cup

The Badminton World Federation (BWF) has unveiled the draws for the prestigious Thomas Cup and Uber Cup, scheduled to take place from April 28 to May 5, 2024. Defending Thomas Cup champion India has been placed in Group C alongside 14-time winner Indonesia, Thailand, and England.

In the Uber Cup, India has been drawn into Group A with 15-time champion China, Canada, and Singapore. India’s best performance in the Uber Cup remains the bronze medals they secured in 2014 and 2016.

Last year, India made history by defeating Indonesia 3-0 in the Thomas Cup final, claiming their maiden title. The tournament, which began in 1949, is the pinnacle of men’s badminton competition.

India’s Thomas Cup group will be a challenging one, with Indonesia seeking revenge for their defeat in the previous edition. Thailand and England are also formidable opponents, making Group C one of the most competitive.

In the Uber Cup, India will face a daunting task against China, who have dominated the competition for years. Canada and Singapore will provide additional challenges, but India will need to be at their best to advance from the group stage.

The draws were announced by BWF on Twitter, with the organization stating, “Thomas Cup Group C: Indonesia, India, Thailand, England.” The Badminton Association of India (BAI) also tweeted the Uber Cup draw, stating, “Draw – BWF Uber Cup Finals 2024 #TeamIndia has been drawn in Group A. Group A: China, India, Canada, Singapore #ThomasUberCupFinals.”

India’s goal will be to defend their Thomas Cup title and improve upon their Uber Cup performance. The team will be led by star shuttlers such as Lakshya Sen, Kidambi Srikanth, and P.V. Sindhu, who will be eager to make their mark on the international stage.

Lakshya Sen Advances at All England Open, Faces Antonsen Test

Lakshya Sen Advances at All England Open, Faces Antonsen Test

U Vimal Kumar’s animated coaching during the All England Open badminton on Wednesday proved crucial as his ward Lakshya Sen overcame the challenge of Magnus Johannesen in the first round. Despite Sen’s lead, Johannesen’s powerful shots kept Kumar on edge.

Johannesen, a highly-rated Danish player, is considered a rising star in men’s badminton. His left-handedness poses a unique challenge to right-handed opponents. However, Sen’s superior net play and patience in rallies earned him a 21-14, 21-14 victory.

While Sen’s strong start is promising, his path ahead becomes more challenging. On Thursday, he faces Johannesen’s compatriot and world No. 3 Anders Antonsen. Sen won their first encounter, but Antonsen has dominated their subsequent meetings.

This is the third consecutive year that Sen and Antonsen will face off in the All England Open, with both previous encounters occurring in Round 2. Sen eliminated Antonsen in 2021 en route to the final, while Antonsen prevailed in 2022.

Antonsen has been in impressive form this year, winning the Malaysia Open and Indonesia Masters. Priyanshu Rajawat, meanwhile, suffered a disappointing loss to Indonesian Chico Aura Dwi Wardoyo, extending his losing streak in the first two rounds of the BWF World Tour to five.

In women’s doubles, Tanisha Crasto and Ashwini Ponnappa defeated Yeung Nga Ting and Yeung Pui Lam for the second time in as many months. They will now face Chinese fifth seeds Zhang Shu Xian and Zheng Yu in the second round. Treesa Jolly and Gayatri Gopichand, however, lost to Indonesian pair Apriyani Rahayu and Siti Fadia Silva Ramadhanti.

Axelsen Annihilates Srikanth, Extends Dominance in Men's Badminton

Axelsen Annihilates Srikanth, Extends Dominance in Men’s Badminton

Viktor Axelsen and Kidambi Srikanth, once touted as the future of men’s badminton, have taken vastly different paths since 2017. Axelsen has soared to unprecedented heights, becoming a two-time world champion, Olympic champion, and world No. 1. Srikanth, on the other hand, has struggled to maintain his early promise, last winning a tournament in 2017.

Their contrasting fortunes were evident in their recent encounter at the All England Open Badminton Championships. Axelsen annihilated Srikanth 21-9, 21-9, extending his winning streak against the Indian to eight matches. Srikanth’s confidence has been shattered, while Axelsen’s dominance continues to grow.

Axelsen’s success stems from his exceptional attack and defense. His towering height and powerful jump smash make him a formidable opponent. However, it is his ability to adapt and counter his opponents’ strategies that sets him apart.

Srikanth, once known for his aggressive style, has lost his attacking edge. His opponents have deciphered his game and found ways to neutralize his venom. As a result, Srikanth has been making more errors and struggling to win matches.

The All England Open also saw the exit of defending champion Li Shi Feng and Olympic-bound HS Prannoy. Prannoy, who had a strong 2023, has struggled this season, raising concerns about his form ahead of the Olympics.

PV Sindhu, on a comeback trail, advanced to the next round after her opponent retired. However, she faces a daunting task in Round 2 against world No. 1 An Se Young, an opponent she has never beaten.

Sindhu Advances, Prannoy and Srikanth Falter at All England Championships

Sindhu Advances, Prannoy and Srikanth Falter at All England Championships

PV Sindhu, India’s double Olympic medalist, advanced to the second round of the women’s singles competition at the All England Championships on Tuesday. However, HS Prannoy and Kidambi Srikanth faced setbacks in the opening round of men’s singles.

Sindhu, ranked 11th in the world, dominated the first game against German opponent Li Yvonne Li, winning 21-10. However, Li retired in the second game, allowing Sindhu to progress to the next round. The Indian is likely to face top seed An Se Young of Korea, who has been a formidable opponent, having defeated Sindhu in all six of their previous encounters.

In men’s singles, Prannoy, ranked 8th in the world, squandered an early lead to lose 21-14, 13-21, 13-21 to Su Li Yang of Chinese Taipei. This marked Prannoy’s second consecutive first-round exit after his loss at the French Open last week.

Srikanth, who is aiming to qualify for the Paris Olympics, suffered a disappointing defeat against world No. 1 Viktor Axelsen, losing 9-21, 9-21. This leaves Lakshya Sen and Priyanshu Rajawat as the only Indian contenders in men’s singles.

Aakarshi Kashyap also bowed out in the opening round, losing 16-21, 11-21 to Pai Yu Po of Chinese Taipei. Treesa Jolly and Gayatri Gopichand will face Indonesia’s Apriyani Rahayu and Siti Fadia Silva Ramadhanti later in the day.

PV Sindhu Advances to Second Round of All England Championships

PV Sindhu Advances to Second Round of All England Championships

Double Olympic medalist PV Sindhu has advanced to the second round of the women’s singles competition at the prestigious All England Championships. Her German opponent, Yvonne Li, retired after the completion of the first game on Tuesday.

Sindhu, the former world champion and current world No. 11, dominated the first game, winning 21-10. However, Li, ranked 26th in the world, decided to withdraw from the match due to an undisclosed reason.

The 28-year-old from Hyderabad will now face top seed An Se Young of Korea in the second round. An has been a formidable opponent for Sindhu, having defeated her in all six of their previous encounters.

An, who is recovering from a right knee injury, recently secured her second title of the season at the French Open last Sunday.

In the first game against Li, Sindhu and her opponent were initially neck-and-neck, tied at 4-4. However, Sindhu quickly pulled away, establishing an 11-7 lead at the break. She continued to extend her advantage, eventually winning the game when Li’s flick serve landed in the net.

Sindhu’s victory marks a positive start to her campaign at the All England Championships. She will be hoping to overcome her past struggles against An and advance to the later stages of the tournament.

Indian Badminton Stars Shine in Paris, Eye Olympic Glory

Indian Badminton Stars Shine in Paris, Eye Olympic Glory

Paris has been a magical venue for Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty, the world’s top-ranked badminton pair. They have reached the final of a BWF Super 750 or higher event for the first time in the French capital, and have won two out of three French Open finals. Their latest triumph came at the venue that will host badminton in the upcoming Olympics, making it even more special.

“It feels really sweet,” said Shetty. “Paris has always been special for us. We have always played good badminton here. It has been a second home for us.”

While they are thrilled with their victory, Rankireddy and Shetty remain focused on the Olympics, which are still six months away. They have a busy schedule ahead, including the All England Open starting on Tuesday.

In Birmingham, they will face a tough opening round against Indonesian legends Mohammad Ahsan and Hendra Setiawan. With the Olympic qualification cutoff on April 28, all top pairs will be eager to perform well at this tournament, which offers the most points.

Indian fans will be eagerly following the action, as the All England Open has a rich history and legacy. Rankireddy and Shetty have a chance to add to India’s sparse success at the tournament, which includes singles triumphs by Prakash Padukone (1980) and Pullela Gopichand (2001).

PV Sindhu is also on a comeback trail, and the All England Open provides an excellent opportunity for her to raise her game. Last season was challenging for her, but she has shown signs of improvement since moving to the Prakash Padukone Badminton Academy.

At the Badminton Asia Team Championships, she defeated a top 10 player, China’s Han Yue, and guided India to an unprecedented gold. Last week, she beat Canada’s Michelle Li and American Beiwen Zhang to reach her first quarter-final since October.

In the last eight, she played well against reigning Olympic champion Chen Yu Fei, taking a game off her. Her performance showed that her mentor, Prakash Padukone, and new coach, Agus Dwi Santoso, are helping her regain her form.

HS Prannoy is all but assured of Olympic qualification, but Lakshya Sen is not. He is joint 15th in the Race to Paris rankings, but above Kidambi Srikanth and Priyanshu Rajawat. The one finishing in the top 16 by April 28 will get a shot at an Olympic medal.

The real fight for qualification is between Tanisha Crasto-Ashwini Ponnappa and Gayatri Gopichand-Treesa Jolly. Tanisha and Ashwini have broken through with superb performances after joining hands early last year, reaching five finals and winning three in 2023. They are currently ranked 11th, while Treesa and Gayatri are joint 14th. The one ranked higher will earn the Olympic spot.

Indian Badminton Stars Aim for Glory at All England Championships

Indian Badminton Stars Aim for Glory at All England Championships

The All England Championships, a prestigious badminton tournament, will commence on Tuesday, with India’s Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty aiming to continue their impressive form. The duo, fresh off their French Open triumph, will face a formidable challenge in the opening round against Indonesian veterans Mohammad Ahsan and Hendra Setiawan.

P V Sindhu, India’s badminton icon, will also face a stern test. She is set to encounter world no. 1 An Se Young in the second round, provided she overcomes Yvonne Li in the first. Sindhu’s recent performances, including a quarterfinal finish at the French Open, indicate that she has recovered from her knee injury.

Lakshya Sen, who boosted his Olympic qualification hopes with a semifinal finish in Paris, will face Malaysia’s Ng Tze Yong. A potential clash with fourth-seeded Anders Antonsen awaits him in the second round.

HS Prannoy, who reached the India Open semifinals but exited the French Open early, will hope to make a deep run. He will open against Chinese Taipei’s Su Li Yang. Kidambi Srikanth, on the other hand, faces a daunting task against world no. 1 Viktor Axelsen in the first round.

In women’s doubles, Treesa Jolly and Gayatri Gopichand will face Indonesian pair Apriyani Rahayu and Siti Fadia Silva Ramadhanti. Tanisha Crasto and Ashwini Ponnappa will take on Hong Kong’s Yeung Nga Ting and Yeung Pui Lam. Both Indian pairs are vying for a spot at the Paris Olympics.

The All England Championships, once an exclusive event, has now become one of four Super 1000 tournaments on the international calendar. However, it remains an iconic tournament in India, with Prakash Padukone and Pullela Gopichand being the only Indian champions. Saina Nehwal and Lakshya Sen have come close, finishing as runners-up.

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