India's Lakshya Sen Advances to Semi-finals at Malaysia Masters

India, 8 January 2026 — Lakshya Sen, India's top badminton player, has advanced to the semi-finals of the Malaysia Masters after a hard-fought victory over Indonesia's Anthony Sinisuka Ginting. The match, held on Friday in Kuala Lumpur, saw Sen triumph with scores of 21-18, 17-21, 21-16. This victory marks a significant achievement for Sen as he continues to demonstrate his rising prowess on the international badminton circuit.

The quarter-final clash was a test of endurance and skill, with both players showcasing high-level badminton. Sen's aggressive play and strategic shot placements were pivotal in overcoming Ginting, who is currently ranked world No. 5. This win propels Sen into the semi-finals, where he will face either Japan's Kento Momota or Denmark's Viktor Axelsen, depending on the outcome of their respective match.

Sen's progression in the tournament is crucial for his career as he seeks to improve his global ranking and gain momentum ahead of upcoming international events. The Malaysia Masters, part of the BWF World Tour Super 500 series, is a key tournament for players aiming to secure points for Olympic qualifications and world rankings.

Coach Vimal Kumar expressed confidence in Sen's abilities, highlighting his improved mental toughness and tactical awareness. "Lakshya has been working hard on his game, and his dedication is paying off," Kumar stated. "This win is a testament to his growth as a player on the world stage."

The ongoing Malaysia Masters has seen significant participation from top-ranked players worldwide, making Sen's achievement even more noteworthy. As the tournament progresses, Indian badminton enthusiasts eagerly await the outcome of Sen's next match, hopeful for another Indian victory in the international arena.