In a gripping badminton semifinal clash at the Paris Olympics 2024, India’s Lakshya Sen faced reigning Olympic champion Viktor Axelsen. Despite a valiant effort, Sen succumbed to Axelsen in straight games, with a final score of 20-22, 14-21.
Lakshya Sen, a 2021 World Championships bronze medalist, entered the semifinals with hopes of securing India’s first-ever Olympic gold in badminton. The match lasted 54 minutes, with both players displaying remarkable skill and determination.
Lakshya Sen couldn’t hold on to the lead
Defending champion Viktor Axelsen showcased why he is one of the best players of the current generation when he beat India’s Lakshya Sen in the semi-final of the Paris Olympics on Sunday, 4 August. Playing at Court 1 of the La Chappele Arena, Axelsen beat a spirited Lakshya Sen 22-20, 14-21 in a gruelling contest that lasted 54 minutes.
Axelsen, who looked to be down and out in both games of the match, trailing 9-15 in the first and then 0-7 in the second, showed why he is one of the best defensive players of all time. Axelsen, with ice in his veins, worked out Lakshya’s unpredictable nature and handed the Indian a defeat, despite the 22-year-old looking at his very best on Sunday.
🇮🇳👏 𝗚𝗥𝗘𝗔𝗧 𝗙𝗜𝗚𝗛𝗧 𝗙𝗥𝗢𝗠 𝗟𝗔𝗞𝗦𝗛𝗬𝗔! Lakshya Sen played exceptionally well today, but unfortunately for him, that wasn't enough to defeat World No.2, Viktor Axelsen. He will now compete in the Bronze medal match.
🏸 Can he go on to win a first-ever medal for India… pic.twitter.com/bjxTX69yII
— India at Paris 2024 Olympics (@sportwalkmedia) August 4, 2024
India has never won an Olympic gold in badminton, with PV Sindhu securing silver and bronze in previous Games, and Saina Nehwal claiming bronze. As the badminton drama unfolds, Sen’s resilience continues to inspire fans, and the quest for that elusive gold medal remains alive.
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