Indian badminton will look to turn a new page in 2026 as leading shuttlers, including Lakshya Sen and P. V. Sindhu, prepare to test themselves against the world’s best at the season-opening Malaysia Open Super 1000 tournament, which begins on Tuesday. The USD 1.45 million event marks a crucial starting point for Indian players after a challenging 2025 season marred by injuries and inconsistent results.
The immediate focus for the Indian contingent is to make an early impact in Malaysia while sharpening their form ahead of next week’s India Open Super 750 tournament in New Delhi. Among the positives from last year was Lakshya Sen, the 2021 world championships bronze medallist, who rediscovered his rhythm by winning the Australian Open Super 500. That title ended a lean spell following his fourth-place finish at the Paris Olympics and reaffirmed his status as India’s leading men’s singles hope.
Sindhu, meanwhile, brings experience and pedigree to the season opener as she seeks consistency and confidence against elite opposition. A strong showing in Malaysia could set the tone for her year and provide momentum heading into the home event in Delhi.
While Indian shuttlers prepare for action in Southeast Asia, the NBA delivered another night of high-octane drama across multiple venues. The Minnesota Timberwolves continued their solid run of form with a 125-115 road win over the Miami Heat, powered by a 33-point display from Anthony Edwards and 29 points off the bench from Naz Reid. Julius Randle added a double-double as Minnesota claimed its fifth win in eight games.
Philadelphia also impressed on the road as Tyrese Maxey poured in 36 points to lead the 76ers past the New York Knicks 130-119, while Joel Embiid contributed 26 points and 10 rebounds. In Toronto, RJ Barrett and Brandon Ingram scored 29 points each as the Raptors defeated the Atlanta Hawks 134-117.
There were standout individual efforts elsewhere too. Deni Avdija recorded a triple-double to help Portland beat San Antonio, while Stephen Curry exploded for 31 points as Golden State rallied past Utah despite the ejection of Draymond Green.
Across sports and continents, the theme was clear: the new year is already delivering intensity and ambition. For Indian badminton, the Malaysia Open offers a chance to reset and rebuild, while the NBA continues to showcase depth, drama, and star power on a nightly basis.
