In a sensational display of skill and determination, Indian shuttler Lakshya Sen emerged victorious in a thrilling quarter-final clash against former champion Lee Zii Jia at the All England Open.
The World Championships medalist showcased his resilience and composure to secure a remarkable 20-22, 21-16, 21-19 comeback win, defeating the 10th-ranked Malaysian in a gripping encounter that lasted over an hour at the United Arena in Birmingham on Friday.
Continuing His Quest for Glory in All England
Lakshya Sen’s triumph propels him into the semi-finals of the prestigious tournament for the second time in his career, following his runner-up finish in 2022. Currently ranked 18th globally, Sen’s exceptional form positions him as a strong contender for a place in the Paris Olympics later this year, with his impressive run at the All England Open serving as a testament to his prowess on the court.
Last Indian Standing: Lakshya Sen
As the lone Indian remaining in the All England Open, Lakshya Sen carries the hopes of the nation following the early exits of other Indian contenders. The shocking departure of the top-seeded doubles pairing of Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty, coupled with PV Sindhu’s defeat against top seed An Se Young, underscores the significance of Sen’s continued presence in the tournament.
Mentored by Legends
Guided by the watchful eyes of his mentor Prakash Padukone, Lakshya Sen’s stellar performance against Lee epitomized his determination to uphold India’s legacy at the All England Open. With Padukone and Pullela Gopichand being the only Indians to clinch All England crowns in the past, Sen aspires to follow in their footsteps and etch his name in history.
Thrilling Battle
Sen’s victory over Lee marked his fourth win in five meetings against the former champion, demonstrating his dominance over the Malaysian stalwart. Despite Lee’s relentless attacks, Sen remained composed under pressure, relying on his defensive prowess and strategic decision-making to secure crucial points.
Sealing the Win in Lakshya Sen style
After a tense opening game loss, Lakshya Sen displayed remarkable resilience, weathering Lee’s aggressive onslaughts and orchestrating a stunning comeback. With the match poised on a knife’s edge in the decider, Sen showcased his mental fortitude, stringing together a series of crucial points to emerge victorious in a thrilling climax.
Looking Ahead
With his sights set on the semi-final, Lakshya Sen awaits the outcome of the quarter-final clash between Indonesia’s Jonathan Christie and China’s Shi Yuqi. As he prepares to take on the winner, Sen remains focused on his quest for glory, buoyed by his remarkable performance and unwavering determination on the court.
