Indian badminton is on the cusp of a possible Sunday sweep in Europe as its two premier singles players, PV Sindhu and Lakshya Sen, delivered exceptional performances to storm into the final of the $500,000 Hylo Open in Saarbrucken, Germany.
Lakshya scripted a much-needed resurgence to revive his season after a challenging phase While Sindhu extended her phenomenal back-to-back finals streak after last week’s campaign in France. Sindhu controlled the tempo, never looking troubled as she closed out the opening game. The second game followed a similar script. Despite Anmol levelling proceedings mid-way through, Sindhu’s accuracy and patience drew errors from her young compatriot. The opening game presented a tactical puzzle. Though Popov fought valiantly to narrow the deficit, Lakshya maintained discipline, sealing the match with a pinpoint smash, converting his second match point. For Sindhu, it is a golden opportunity to convert a deep run into championship gold after last week’s near-miss in Paris. For Lakshya, clinching the Hylo Open crown would provide the definitive turning point to a season of rebuilding, reminding the global circuit of his quality.
Anmol, 19, making only her second Super 500 last-four appearance since her impressive run at the Arctic Open, brought youthful energy and fighting spirit to the Super 500 tournament. Popov started brightly, testing Lakshya with sharp flat exchanges and varied angles to keep the score level at 4-4. Yet, the 2021 World Championships bronze medallist kept his composure, matching the Frenchman stroke for stroke before turning up the heat. Carrying that momentum into the second game, Lakshya suffocated world No.14 Popov. A barrage of smashes and relentless court dominance stretched his lead to 14-7, effectively breaking the Frenchman’s resistance.
Both booked their summit clashes in style on Saturday, registering straight-game victories.
