Indian badminton’s men’s singles contingent produced a dream start at the Hong Kong Open 2025 Super 500, registering three impressive victories in the opening round.
HS Prannoy, Lakshya Sen, and Kiran George all advanced, while youngster Ayush Shetty too joined them with a gritty win, making it one of the most successful opening days for India in recent memory. Veteran HS Prannoy (WR 34) rolled back the years with a commanding straight-games win over Lu Guangzu (WR 14) of China, prevailing 21-17, 21-14. Facing a higher-ranked opponent, Prannoy looked sharp and confident from the very start, maintaining control of rallies with his precise net play and steep attacking clears.
The Indian mixed aggression with patience, forcing Lu into uncomfortable defensive positions. While the first game saw some close exchanges until 15-all, Prannoy’s calmness under pressure helped him close it out 21-17. The second game was even more one-sided, with the Indian racing to a 16-9 lead and finishing the job 21-14. This win not only boosts Prannoy’s confidence but also sets up an all-Indian clash against Lakshya Sen in the Round of 16. It will be their first meeting since the Paris Olympics 2024, where Lakshya had edged ahead in their rivalry. Currently, Lakshya leads the head-to-head 5-3, but Prannoy’s form suggests this encounter could be a thriller.
World No. 20 Lakshya Sen survived a stern test against Wang Tzu Wei of Chinese Taipei, coming through 22-20, 16-21, 21-15 in an error-strewn yet resilient performance. Lakshya trailed for most of the opening game and even faced a game point at 16-19. But he clawed his way back, saving crucial points and taking the opener 22-20 with a brilliant mix of net interceptions and quick smashes.
The second game saw him lose momentum as Wang controlled the rallies, forcing Lakshya into defensive errors to take it 21-16. In the decider, the Indian once again looked under pressure, trailing 4-9 at one stage. But Lakshya showed mental toughness, slowly narrowing the gap and then unleashing his attacking flair when it mattered. He sealed the match 21-15, proving his ability to grind through tough contests.
Despite the victory, Lakshya will know he has room for improvement. Against compatriot Prannoy in the next round, he cannot afford the same lapses.
Kiran George Stuns Jason Teh
One of the highlights of the day came from Kiran George, who delivered a confident performance to oust Singapore’s Jason Teh Jia Heng 21-11, 21-16. Jason, ranked higher than Kiran, was expected to test the Indian, but it was the latter who dictated terms throughout. Kiran’s movement was sharp, and his control at the net repeatedly frustrated his opponent. His deceptive drops and quick changes of pace earned him several outright winners. After taking the first game 21-11, he maintained composure to seal the second 21-16.
This win takes Kiran into a tough Round of 16 clash against third seed Chou Tien Chen (TPE), a vastly experienced campaigner. While the challenge will be steep, Kiran’s confident display shows he has the tools to trouble higher-ranked opponents.
Ayush Shetty Joins the Party
Adding to the triple delight was Ayush Shetty (WR 31), who fought back from a game down to beat Taiwan’s Su Li Yang (WR 37) 15-21, 21-19, 21-13. The youngster showed resilience after a slow start, adjusting his rhythm to edge the second game before outclassing his opponent in the decider. Ayush’s growing maturity on the circuit makes him another exciting prospect for Indian badminton, ensuring the men’s singles pipeline remains strong. With Prannoy vs Lakshya lined up, Indian fans are assured of at least one quarterfinalist in men’s singles.
Kiran George’s clash against Chou Tien Chen will be a stern examination, while Ayush Shetty faces an equally tough test in the next round.
Nevertheless, to see four Indians progress past the opening hurdle at a Super 500 event is an encouraging sign. The blend of experience (Prannoy), consistency (Lakshya), and emerging talent (Kiran, Ayush) reflects the depth India is building in men’s singles an area that has often struggled for breadth beyond its top names. As the tournament progresses, the spotlight will remain firmly on the all-Indian showdown between Prannoy and Lakshya.
It is not just about a place in the quarterfinals it’s a clash between experience and youth, and possibly a hint at India’s men’s singles pecking order heading into 2026.
