It was a day of sharp reflexes and synchronized brilliance for Indian badminton. Lakshya Sen, with lightning speed and relentless attack, outclassed Zhao Junpeng 21–11, 21–18, while the ever-reliable duo of Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty produced a tactical masterclass to defeat Kang Min-hyuk and Kim Won-ho 21–18, 21–10 at the Japan Open 2025.

Lakshya’s Reflexes Leave No Breathing Room
From the very first point, Lakshya Sen looked unstoppable. His reflexes were razor-sharp, his shot placement precise, and his movement silky smooth. Zhao Junpeng was left gasping as Lakshya raced through the opening set 21–11, never allowing his opponent a moment to settle.

The second game saw a stronger response from Zhao, who began reading Lakshya’s patterns and matching his pace. But Lakshya stayed composed. Even as the rallies got tighter, the Indian kept pushing the pressure back,  forcing unforced errors from Zhao at crucial points. The scoreboard read 21–18, but the real difference was in the tempo Lakshya dictated throughout.

It was his day, and he never let it go.


Satwik-Chirag: A Perfect Team Game
If Lakshya’s win was about individual brilliance, Satwik-Chirag’s was the definition of teamwork. The Korean pair started well, but the Indians were always a step ahead, switching positions fluidly, covering the court like a net, and creating constant pressure.

In the first game, they absorbed Korea’s aggression and turned defense into attack seamlessly to edge ahead 21–18. But it was in the second game where their domination was complete. Attacking the gaps, forcing indecision, and rushing the net, the Indian pair made Kang and Kim crumble. The 21–10 finish wasn’t just a scoreline, it was a statement.

Also read : PV Sindhu’s Downward Spiral Continues with Japan Open Exit https://clickingtosports.com/pv-sindhu-japan-open-2025-exit/


Momentum on Their Side
With Lakshya Sen finding rhythm in singles and Satwik-Chirag continuing to assert dominance in doubles, India’s top shuttlers look in fine touch. Their powerful performances at the Japan Open not just intent, but readiness to take on anyone, anywhere.

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