Indian shuttler Lakshya Sen’s spirited campaign at the Hong Kong Open came to an agonizing end as he fell to a determined opponent in the men’s singles final on Sunday. Despite displaying resilience and flashes of brilliance throughout the tournament, Sen could not find the finishing touch when it mattered most, settling for the silver medal.
A Strong Run Ends in the Final
The 22-year-old from Almora had entered the title clash riding high on confidence after a series of commanding performances earlier in the week. His sharp net play, quick footwork, and attacking mindset had helped him overcome a string of tough competitors to book a place in the final.
However, on the big day, Sen found himself under relentless pressure as his opponent dictated the tempo with consistency and accuracy.
Key Moments That Decided the Match
While Sen fought back bravely in crucial rallies, unforced errors at key moments proved costly. His attempts to wrest control with aggressive smashes were often met with solid defensive replies, forcing him into longer exchanges that tipped in his rival’s favor. The close first game slipped through his grasp, and though Sen tried to claw back in the second, the momentum never quite turned in his direction.
This runner-up finish marks yet another reminder of Sen’s rising stature on the world stage. The young shuttler, who has already claimed Commonwealth Games gold and a string of impressive World Tour victories, continues to cement his reputation as one of India’s most promising badminton stars.
