Indian badminton ace HS Prannoy delivered an electrifying performance in the China Open Super 1000 tournament, clawing back from a game down and saving five match points to defeat Japan’s Koki Watanabe in a thrilling encounter.
The former top-10 player showcased nerves of steel to claim an 8-21, 21-16, 23-21 victory and secure his spot in the second round.
“I’m happy to be back on tour,” said Prannoy post-match, emphasising the growing difficulty of progressing in a younger and faster competitive field.
In contrast, India’s Lakshya Sen saw his campaign end abruptly as he lost to China’s fifth seed Li Shi Feng. Despite a strong start, Sen fell 21-14, 22-24, 11-21 in a tense three-game battle.
Women’s singles player Anupama Upadhyay also exited in the opening round, losing 23-21, 11-21, 10-21 to Lin Hsiang Ti of Chinese Taipei. Mixed doubles teams faced similar setbacks with both Indian pairs bowing out early.
The tournament highlights India’s ongoing challenge in maintaining consistency amid rising global talent, with Prannoy’s fightback offering a beacon of hope for the contingent.
