Lakshya Sen Makes First-Round Exit At Denmark Open

October 15, 2024: Lakshya Sen’s campaign at the Denmark Open ended in disappointment as he was defeated by China’s Lu Guangzu in the opening round on Tuesday. Despite starting the match on a strong note, Sen ultimately lost 21-12, 19-21, 14-21, marking another early exit for the Indian shuttler following his recent struggles at the Arctic Open.

Sen began the match with confidence, dominating the first game 21-12 through aggressive play and sharp smashes that left Lu Guangzu on the defensive. It seemed as though Sen was on track for a convincing win. In the second game, Sen built a commanding 16-11 lead, but Lu mounted a stunning comeback, demonstrating resilience and tactical play. Lu won the second game 21-19, shifting the momentum in his favor.

The deciding third game saw Sen struggling to regain control, while Lu maintained his rhythm and confidence. The Chinese player’s strategic play and consistency led him to a 21-14 win, sealing Sen’s defeat.

This loss follows Sen’s early exit from the Arctic Open, where he lost to Chinese Taipei’s Chou Tien Chen in the pre-quarterfinals. Sen was India’s only representative in the men’s singles at the Denmark Open, and his defeat to world No. 17 Lu Guangzu adds to his recent streak of underwhelming performances.

In the women’s singles competition, Malvika Bansod also faced disappointment, losing to Vietnam’s Nguyen Thuy Linh 21-13, 21-12 in the Round of 32. Bansod, who reached the quarterfinals of the China Open, was also eliminated early in the Arctic Open prior to her Denmark Open defeat. Both Sen and Bansod will look to regroup and improve in upcoming tournaments as they continue to represent India on the international badminton stage.