The 21-year-old shuttler from Almora showcased a badminton masterpiece, combining exceptional speed and power to outclass the reigning All England champion Feng in a thrilling summit clash.
With a score of 21-18, 22-20, Sen demonstrated his skill and determination, claiming victory and adding another prestigious title to his name. This triumph follows his earlier success at the 2022 India Open, where he clinched his maiden Super 500 title.
“Coming into the Olympic qualification year, it was tough as things didn’t go my way. So this win will be a big boost to my confidence,” Sen told PTI after the win.
“I had to dig deep in some matches, the conditions were different and getting used to it was important,” the ace shuttler said.
Sen celebrated his first title since winning the gold medal at the Commonwealth Games in August of the previous year. He became the second singles player from India to claim a title this year, following HS Prannoy’s victory at the Malaysia Masters in May.
Sen’s resilience and composure were on full display as he fought back from four game points down in the second game. He seized a championship point and capitalized on his first opportunity, concluding the intense match with a powerful smash. Overwhelmed with relief and happiness, he collapsed onto the court in celebration.
The contest between the two players featured extraordinary rallies, characterized by swift exchanges at the net. Sen, keeping a tight grip on proceedings, secured his fifth victory in seven encounters against his Chinese opponent.
This triumph will serve as a much-needed confidence boost for Sen, who had experienced a dip in form earlier in the season, resulting in a slip to the 19th position in the world rankings. As a former world No. 6 and a bronze medalist at the 2021 World Championships, Sen encountered challenges in recovering his form after undergoing nose surgery for a deviated septum in August of the previous year.
Sen demonstrated superior control and temperament to emerge victorious against the world No. 10 from China. Playing a tight net game and unleashing a series of potent down-the-line and cross-court smashes, Sen troubled Feng, who found himself trailing 2-6 in the opening game.
Both players engaged in a high-speed exchange, delivering eye-catching jump smashes. Li unleashed two thunderous smashes at speeds of 390 kmph, while Sen countered with a couple of lightning-fast 400 kmph shots. At the mid-game interval, Sen managed to maintain a three-point advantage after Li failed to handle a body return from the Indian.
However, unforced errors caused Li to fall behind at 12-15. Although he managed to level the score at 15-15, Sen gained three game points with his trademark straight smash.
Sen further asserted his dominance with a precise return on Li’s forehand, ultimately claiming the first game.
In the second game, Li gained momentum after an initial battle that left the score tied at 5-5. He entered the break with a four-point lead, capitalizing on his superiority at the net. Attempting to shift the tides, Sen altered his tactics and narrowed the deficit to 13-14. However, Li maintained his advantage and had four game points with a powerful return that caught Sen off guard.
Displaying his determination, Sen responded with a forehand body smash, followed by another powerful smash. Li faltered at the net, allowing Sen to level the score. Another rally concluded with a precise return on Li’s forehand, giving Sen the advantage. He sealed the victory with yet another thunderous smash.
(With PTRI inputs)
