Indian Shuttler Lakshya Sen Wins Canada Open 2023 Title
Lakshya Sen, a Commonwealth Games gold medalist from India, emerged as a winner at the Canada Open 2023 badminton tournament.
He defeated Li Shi Feng of China in the final held in Calgary. Lakshya triumphed over the All England champion with a score of 21-18, 22-20.
Lakshya Sen expressed his satisfaction with the win, noting that it would boost his confidence in the Olympic qualification year. He acknowledged the challenges he faced and highlighted the need to adapt to the different conditions in the tournament.
The match between Sen and Li was filled with fast-paced exchanges at the net, showcasing their skills and agility. Sen maintained control and composure throughout the game, securing his fifth win in seven meetings against the Chinese opponent.
Formerly ranked world No. 6, Sen had undergone nose surgery for a deviated septum after the World Championships in August 2022, which required a significant recovery period. Despite the setback, he showcased his power and precision against Li Shi Feng.
In the opening game, Sen took an early lead with a series of down-the-line and cross-court smashes, putting pressure on Li. The game featured high-speed exchanges and impressive jump smashes from both players.
In the second game, Li gained momentum and established a four-point lead. However, Sen displayed his determination and saved four game points, eventually leveling the score. With his resilience and powerful smashes, he secured a championship point and sealed the victory.
Sen’s journey to the final included victories over notable opponents, such as Thailand’s Kunlavut Vitidsarn and Japan’s Kenta Nishimoto.
This win at the Canada Open marked Sen’s first final appearance in 2023 and his second appearance in the final of a BWF World Tour Super 500 event.
The 21-year-old Sen has experienced a drop in rankings and faced several early exits from tournaments this year. His road to recovery after the nose surgery was further hindered by illnesses and allergies for over eight months.
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The Canada Open 2023 was a Super 500 tournament, which attracted top players from around the world. The tournament was held in Calgary, Canada, and it was a part of the BWF World Tour.
