Kuala Lumpur, May 22: India’s campaign at the Malaysia Masters 2026 ended on Friday as Ashmita Chaliha bowed out in the women’s singles quarterfinals after a hard‑fought three‑game battle against Denmark’s Line Kjaersfeldt.
Ashmita started strongly, leading 11‑6 in the first game and eventually clinching it 23‑21 on her third attempt. In the second game, she again led 10‑5, but Kjaersfeldt fought back to level at 13‑13. The Danish shuttler then won four consecutive points, taking control and closing the game 21‑18.
The decider saw Kjaersfeldt dominate. After an early tie at 4‑4, she surged ahead with a five‑point run to lead 13‑6. Ashmita struggled to recover as Kjaersfeldt sealed the match 21‑11.
This was the second meeting between the two players, with Kjaersfeldt also winning their previous encounter at the Thailand Masters 2023 in three games.
With Ashmita’s exit, India’s journey at the Malaysia Masters concluded. The focus now shifts to the Singapore Open Super 750, beginning Tuesday, where Indian shuttlers will aim to bounce back.
