Lakshya Sen Stuns Loh Kean Yew to Enter Japan Masters Semifinals

India’s Lakshya Sen delivered a commanding performance to defeat former world champion Loh Kean Yew of Singapore and book a place in the semifinals of the Japan Masters Super 500 tournament in Kumamoto City on Friday.

The Commonwealth Games gold medallist, seeded seventh, outclassed the world No. 9 with a straight-game 21-13, 21-17 victory that lasted just 39 minutes. With the win, Sen extended his impressive head-to-head record against Loh to 7-3, underlining his growing dominance in the rivalry.

Ranked world No. 15, Sen has been in strong form this season, having finished runner-up at the Hong Kong Open in September. He will next face Japan’s sixth seed and world No. 13 Kenta Nishimoto for a spot in the final.

Sen began confidently, matching Loh shot for shot in the early exchanges as the pair were tied 4-4 in the opening game. The Indian then shifted gears, combining sharp net play with accurate smashes to surge ahead 11-8 at the mid-game interval. On resumption, Sen reeled off six consecutive points to open up a decisive 18-9 lead before wrapping up the game with ease.

Loh, who has been searching for form in recent months, put up a stronger fight in the second game. The Singaporean stayed level at 9-9, forcing longer rallies and testing Sen’s defence. But the Indian once again showed composure under pressure, tightening his grip to move 15-9 ahead. Loh mounted a late comeback, closing the gap to 17-18, but Sen’s control at the net and consistency underlined the difference as he sealed the win with authority.

This latest victory reinforces Sen’s resurgence on the international circuit after a mixed 2023 season marked by injuries and form fluctuations. His tactical awareness and improved shot selection have stood out in recent outings, suggesting a return to the kind of rhythm that saw him break into the world’s top 10 two years ago.

As Sen prepares to face Nishimoto in front of the home crowd’s support, he remains India’s lone hope in the tournament. Another strong performance could see him inch closer to his first BWF World Tour title of the season, adding further momentum to his bid for Olympic qualification.