Lakshya Sen Topples Jonatan Christie In Superlative Fightback; Enters Paris Olympics Pre-QFs

Sen beat Christie 21-18, 21-12 in the final group L match to seal his place in the round of 16, where he could face compatriot HS Prannoy if the latter, too, advances.

The 22-year-old from Almora, who is a 2021 world championships bronze medallist, rose to the occasion to outwit Christie, the reigning All England and Asian champion in a splendid display of tactical acumen.

"It was a really tough match today, happy with the way I played. And especially in the first set it was crucial to cover up the lead and find my rhythm quickly. And then it was a matter of a few points in the end which I just stuck in there and played well," Sen said after the match.

"In the second game I looked much more in control. Yeah, ready for the round of 16. But I think overall I'm used to the conditions now and ready for the next matches."

Sen had beaten Kevin Cordon, a Tokyo Olympics semi-finalist, in the opening Group L match on Sunday which was later "deleted" after his Guatemalan opponent pulled out due to a left elbow injury.

A gold medallist at the 2022 Commonwealth Games, Sen beat Julien Carraggi of Belgium before facing Christie.

Asked if the men's singles gold medal at Paris 2024 is in his sight now, Sen said: "Yes, definitely. I think in the last few months my form has been really good.

"There has been ups and downs but overall I was in good shape in the last few months and especially ending playing here in the French Open I found my momentum. From there on I was just trying to build up for a good event and I'm pumped up to fight every match and every point."

The 22-year-old came into this match with a dismal 1-4 head-to-head record against Christie. The only time Sen had trumped Christie was four years ago at the Badminton Asia Team Championships.

But the youngster showed great maturity on Wednesday to complete a well-earned victory.

(With PTI inputs)