India’s Lakshya Sen showcased exceptional mental resilience and physical endurance as he outclassed China’s Shi Yu Qi in a thrilling three game battle on Tuesday, a contest defined by fine margins and relentless intensity.
Lakshya secured a 23 21, 19 21, 21 17 victory, earning his first win over the former world number one in a BWF World Tour event. He had previously beaten the Chinese star during the 2023 Asian Games team championships.
Coach Vimal Kumar praised Lakshya’s composure, saying he remained calm throughout and forced Shi to work hard for every point from the outset, eventually wearing him down. He admitted Lakshya appeared slightly fatigued at one stage in the second game but commended his recovery and attacking display, calling it a significant confidence-boosting triumph.
Lakshya began sharply, racing to an 11 7 advantage at the mid-game interval in the opener with crisp, angled smashes and swift net interceptions. He extended the lead to 17 12 by consistently breaking Shi’s defence with steep cross-court winners and tight net exchanges.
The match took a dramatic turn when Lakshya let slip leads of 18 12 and 19 16. Shi mounted a spirited comeback, leveling at 20 20 after saving multiple game points. In a tense finish, Lakshya finally converted his fifth opportunity with a decisive cross-court smash to claim the opening game.
Shi responded strongly in the second game, entering the interval with a three-point cushion after capitalising on a few errors. The rallies grew longer and more punishing as both players pushed each other physically, with the outcome hinging on small but crucial moments.
Trailing 13 19 at one point, Lakshya staged a determined fightback to close the gap to 18 19. However, Shi produced a powerful body smash to earn game point and sealed the second game 21 19 to force a decider.
Lakshya’s performance stood out for its balance of attacking flair, disciplined defence, and sharp net play. His relentless retrieving forced Shi to take greater risks, often aiming closer to the lines under sustained pressure.
In the deciding game, the players were level at 6 6 before Lakshya edged ahead to take an 11 9 lead at the final interval. He raised his intensity thereafter, capitalising on errors and striking winners to move 16 11 ahead, later extending the margin to 18 14 with a powerful down the line smash.
Shi briefly stayed in contention after a successful challenge confirmed his shot had clipped the line. Lakshya responded confidently, moving to 19 16 and earning four match points. Although he missed one opportunity, he wrapped up the match when Shi sent his return long.
Elsewhere, Malvika Bansod went down 11 21, 6 21 to China’s Chen Yu Fei. In mixed doubles action, Dhruv Kapila and Tanisha Crasto recorded a 21 17, 21 19 victory over Malaysia’s Hoo Pang Ron and Cheng Su Yin.
