Lakshya Sen delivered a standout performance at the India Open, knocking out Japan’s Kenta Nishimoto in a gripping men’s singles clash to advance to the quarterfinals. The match, lasting over an hour, saw Sen triumph 21-17, 13-21, 21-19, turning the tide with superior stamina and precise smashes.

Nishimoto started strongly but Sen’s tactical adjustments in the third game proved decisive. The Indian’s ability to read the shuttle and counterattack relentlessly left the Japanese shuttler frustrated.

Disappointment struck elsewhere as veterans Kidambi Srikanth and HS Prannoy bowed out. Srikanth was outplayed by Anders Antonsen in straight games (18-21, 15-21), struggling with unforced errors. Prannoy similarly succumbed to Li Shifeng (19-21, 17-21), unable to find rhythm against the Chinese star’s power game.

This result underscores Sen’s rising prowess on the BWF circuit. With world No. 29 ranking, he’s now a dark horse for deeper runs. Next up is a potential quarterfinal against a Southeast Asian rival.

Indian badminton’s depth is evident, yet consistency remains key. As the tournament unfolds at KD Jadav Hall, all eyes are on Sen to carry the nation’s hopes forward.