Xplorich
NEW DELHI: India’s Kidambi Srikanth finished runner-up at the US Open Super 300 badminton tournament after losing a hard-fought men’s singles final to Chinese Taipei’s Su Li-yang. The 33-year-old former world No. 1 showed great fighting spirit by recovering after losing the opening game, but eventually went down 15-21, 21-16, 9-21 in a physically demanding contest that lasted just over an hour.Playing his first final of the season, Srikanth started brightly but lost momentum after an unusual error when his racquet crossed the net during a rally. Although he battled back to level the score midway through the opening game, Su raised the intensity after the break, using his speed and deceptive shot-making to take control and secure the first game.The second game was a much tighter affair, with both players matching each other point for point. Srikanth showcased his experience and sharp net play, taking control during the middle stages of the game. Despite a late challenge from Su, the Indian held his nerve, earning multiple game points before sealing the game with a powerful down-the-line smash to force a deciding third game.
Su dominates final game to claim maiden title
The decider, however, belonged to the younger Su, who came out aggressively and never allowed Srikanth to settle. The Chinese Taipei player maintained a relentless pace and built a comfortable lead. Srikanth mixed brilliant winners with unforced errors and was also left frustrated after being denied permission by the chair umpire to change his shirt during the game.Su continued to dominate the rallies and eventually earned 12 championship points. Although Srikanth saved one, Su closed out the match to win the first BWF World Tour title of his career, while Srikanth had to settle for another runner-up finish.
