India’s rising star Lakshya Sen was defeated 21‑17, 13‑21, 18‑21 by Taiwan’s Lin Chun‑Yi in the men’s singles quarter‑finals of the 2026 India Open, ending the host nation’s last realistic chance for a title at this BWF World Super 750 event.
Match Overview
From the first serve, Sen displayed his trademark aggressive footwork and attacking play, taking the opening game 21‑17 with powerful smashes and precise net shots. Lin rallied in the second game, using angled clears and deft drops to level the match at 13‑21. In the decisive third game, both players exchanged long rallies, but Lin’s relentless pressure secured the final 18‑21 win, eliminating Sen and India’s title hopes.
Technical Switch That Paid Off
Just a day earlier, Sen had implemented a mid‑match tactical change against Japan’s Hirokatsu Hashimoto, dropping back from his usual mid‑court dominance to a deeper defensive stance. This adjustment helped him absorb Hashimoto’s rallying and counter‑attack from the rear court, earning him the sole Indian victory of that round and raising expectations for a deeper run.
Implications for Sen and Indian Badminton
- Ranking points: Exiting in the quarter‑finals awards Sen 5,400 points, short of the 9,200 points available for a semi‑final appearance, which could cause a slight dip in his world ranking.
- Confidence and experience: The match highlighted Sen’s attacking flair but also revealed a vulnerability in defending long rallies against disciplined opponents. Minor tactical tweaks could turn future tight losses into wins.
- India’s broader prospects: With Sen’s exit, the Indian squad—featuring Prannoy H. S. and P. V. Sindhu—must look to the doubles draws for a breakthrough, intensifying scrutiny on the Badminton Association of India ahead of the Thomas & Uber Cup and the 2026 Asian Games.
Lin Chun‑Yi’s Breakthrough
Lin’s victory propels him into the semi‑finals of a Super 750 tournament for the first time, boosting his confidence and establishing him as a dark horse for the title. His composure after dropping the first game underscores his growing stature on the world stage.
Future Outlook
Sen’s next major test arrives at the Singapore Open, a Super 500 event slated for next month. Observers will watch to see whether he returns to his aggressive mid‑court style or integrates the defensive depth that proved effective against Hashimoto. Coach Pullela Gopichand has emphasized a balanced approach, focusing on stamina and strategic adaptability as the season moves toward the World Championships in August.
While the quarter‑final loss stings, Sen’s upward trajectory remains clear, and his performance in New Delhi adds another compelling chapter to a promising career.
