Lakshya Sen makes history, reaches quarterfinals of Olympics badminton
Lakshya Sen's historic achievement in reaching the quarterfinals of the Olympics badminton competition is a testament to his talent and dedication. As he continues to make his mark on the sport, Sen has become an inspiration for aspiring badminton players in India and around the world.
In a stunning display of skill and determination, India's Lakshya Sen has made history by becoming only the third male player from the country to reach the quarterfinals of the Olympics badminton competition. The 22-year-old from Almora showcased a dominant performance as he defeated his compatriot HS Prannoy in straight games in the Round of 16 match at the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris.
Sen, who is the reigning Commonwealth Games champion and a bronze medalist at the 2021 World Championships, demonstrated his exceptional skills and control throughout the match. He secured a comfortable 21-12, 21-6 victory over the world number 13 Prannoy in just 39 minutes.
I am still in awe, Lakshay Sen is just 22 but he is so calm and composed, no wild celebrations after winning a tricky match but straight on went to shake hands with Chou. Don't know if he will win a medal, but he is destined to be a shuttler ❤️#Paris2024pic.twitter.com/Uv0iLueYMj
— sh⁷ 💜🇮🇳 (@daarubadnamkrdi) August 2, 2024
This remarkable achievement places Sen in the esteemed company of Parupalli Kashyap and Kidambi Srikanth, who reached the quarterfinals in the 2012 London Olympics and 2016 Rio Olympics, respectively. Sen's journey in the Olympics badminton competition has captivated fans worldwide, as he continues to make waves in the sport.
Looking ahead to the quarterfinals, Sen, currently ranked 22nd, will face the 12th seed Chou Tien Chen from Chinese Taipei. Sen expressed his confidence and readiness for the upcoming match, stating, "I think having tough matches gives you confidence. I am now ready to go deep into the tournament. It will be a tricky match against Chou, I have to go and recover well and give my 100%."
Sen's performance in the match against Prannoy showcased his steady defense and well-mixed attack. In contrast, Prannoy, who had played a three-game match the previous evening, appeared fatigued and struggled to put up resistance. Despite recovering from a bout of Chikungunya to compete in his maiden Olympics, Prannoy's campaign came to an end with this loss.
As Sen prepares to face Chou Tien Chen in the quarterfinals, all eyes will be on him as he aims to continue his impressive run and bring glory to India. His remarkable journey in the Olympics badminton competition has captured the attention and admiration of fans worldwide, who eagerly await his next match.
History Created! 🔥#LakshaySen becomes First ever Indian male #badminton player to enter semis of Men's Singles at #Olympics
— Chaitanya (चैतन्य) 🇮🇳 (@TheChaitanya__) August 2, 2024
Bharat Is Proud of You #LakshyaSen 🇮🇳#LakshyaSen#Paris2024 #GOLD #OlympicGamesParis2024 pic.twitter.com/QbdXOk640y
Lakshya Sen's historic achievement in reaching the quarterfinals of the Olympics badminton competition is a testament to his talent and dedication. As he continues to make his mark on the sport, Sen has become an inspiration for aspiring badminton players in India and around the world. With his exceptional skills and unwavering determination, Sen has the potential to go even further in the tournament and etch his name in the annals of badminton history.
