The men's singles quarter-final between India's Lakshya Sen and Chinese Taipei's Chou Tien-Chen is scheduled to begin at 9:05pm IST. (Streaming | Medal Table | Schedule & Results)
Lakshya Sen Vs Chou Tien-Chen QF, Paris Olympics Highlights: Lakshya Sen, has scripted history by storming into the semifinals of the Paris Olympics. The 22-year-old defeated the formidable Chou Tien-Chen of Chinese Taipei in a thrilling quarterfinal match. With this victory, Sen becomes the first Indian male badminton player to reach the Olympic semifinals
The men's singles quarter-final between India's Lakshya Sen and Chinese Taipei's Chou Tien-Chen is scheduled to begin at 9:05pm IST. (Streaming | Medal Table | Schedule & Results)
Lakshya Trails Chen
Lakshya Sen faces a stiff challenge against Chou Tien Chen. Chen claimed three of the four previous clashes between these two shuttlers while Lakshya won only once during the All England Open last year.
Lakshya enters the game and levels it with strong rallies and astute judgment.
Lakshya's growing confidence is evident in the tense expressions of Sen and Chen as they engage in fierce rallies and powerful smashes to claim points.
Sen initially held the advantage, but Chen's exceptional defense, powerful smashes, and relentless attacks swiftly leveled the playing field. The crowd is full enthusiastic, support for India as both players engaged in intense rallies, neither willing to concede.
Lakshya missed his serve. Chen was in control. But Lakshya hit a great smash to catch up. Chen is continuously trying to test Lakshya’s forehand. INDIA INDIA IN BACKGROUND
When everyone started thinking that the set is gone, Lakshya Sen comes storming back in, two points obtained from two powerful smashes.
Lakshya unleashed another stunning cross-court smash to extend his lead to two points after a long rally. The Indian crowd's roaring support fuels Sen's momentum.
A dramatic point goes to Chou after a long rally.
Chen clinches the first game -
A poor serve from Lakshya gifts Chen the point, ending the game abruptly.
Game two begins!
Chou opens the second game with a stunning body smash, but Sen is quickly matching his opponent point for point and he is leading.
Chen mounts a comeback, capitalizing on another lucky net cord to stretch the lead.
Sen wins the point after a thrilling defensive battle where both players showcased incredible court coverage.
Another long jaw-dropping rally but Sen ends it with a steep smash and confidence.
Chen was looking for a defense gap and he found it, Sen dropped one and the opponent stole a point.
Chen falters with an unforced error, hitting the net on an easy backhand. Lakshya, like the champion he is, capitalizes to retake the lead.
Chen regains control of the net with a powerful smash, tying the score.
Lakshya seizes an opportunity, dominating Chen at the net. It appears Chen is tiring, and Sen is capitalizing on his opponent’s waning energy.
Five Game Point for Lakshya -
Lakshya levels the match with a 21-15 win, forcing a deciding third game.
Yes, We ARE.
Lakshya struggled to find his rhythm early in the third game, gifting Chen the first two points with a series of errors.
Sen levels the score with a stunning inside-out half-smash.
Both players are trying to control the net, a brilliant drop from the Sen amazing net play.
Lakshya is truly sensational at the moment, he is dominating net, court and scoreboard.
Sen is playing his favorite shots, and mounting pressure on Chen.
Indian maintains a good lead, but the shuttle goes away with wind and it gave the opponent one point.
Is Lakshya going to make history, just a few points away.
A crucial error from Chen forces a break, providing both players with a much-needed breather.
Eight match-points for Lakshya and and and, he wins it.
Lakshya Sen has etched his name in Indian Olympic history by securing a place in the semifinals of the badminton tournament. He becomes the first Indian male shuttler to reach semis.
Lakshya wins 19-21, 21-15, 21-12
Lakshya will meet the winner of the match between top seed Viktor Axelsen of Denmark and Singapore's Loh Kean Yew in the men's semi-finals.
Heartbreak no more! Indian badminton fans, you can finally breathe a sigh of relief. Lakshya Sen has made history! This victory is a sweet taste of success after enduring some tough losses. It's time to celebrate! We'll be back tomorrow with more Olympic action. Until then, enjoy this moment and sleep soundly. Goodnight!