India Advances to Finals in Asian Badminton Championship

India, 17 December 2025 — In a significant achievement for Indian badminton, the Indian men's team has advanced to the finals of the Asian Badminton Championship. The semi-final match took place on 16 December 2025 in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. India secured a place in the finals by defeating the host nation Malaysia with a convincing 3-1 victory. The Indian team, led by captain Lakshya Sen, showcased exceptional skills on the court. Sen, along with doubles pair Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty, was instrumental in sealing the victory. Sen won his singles match against Malaysia's Lee Zii Jia, and the doubles team clinched their match in straight sets. This victory is significant as it marks India's first entry into the finals of the championship in over a decade. The team's performance highlights the growing strength of Indian badminton on the international stage. The finals are scheduled to take place on 18 December 2025, where India will face Indonesia, a formidable opponent. The match is anticipated to be a challenging yet defining moment for Indian badminton. Commenting on the semi-final win, coach Pullela Gopichand expressed confidence in the team's ability to perform under pressure. He stated that the players’ hard work and dedication were key factors in their success so far.