India’s Lakshya Sen produced a sensational performance to reach the semifinals of the All England Open Badminton Championships, defeating former champion Li Shi Feng in straight games in the quarterfinals.
The Indian shuttler delivered a composed and attacking display to beat the world No.6 21-13, 21-16, sealing his place in the last four of one of badminton’s most prestigious tournaments.
The victory marks Sen’s third semifinal appearance at the All England Open, having previously reached the final in 2022 and the semifinals in 2024. It also carried added significance as it ended a difficult run against Li Shi Feng, whom Sen had lost to in their previous three meetings.
Watch Indian Live Scores and Play Quiz – Download IndiaSportsHub App
Heading into the match, Sen had already endured two physically demanding three-game battles earlier in the tournament. Against Li Shi Feng, however, the Indian ensured there would be no extended contest. From the opening exchanges, Sen looked sharper, quicker around the court and tactically precise. His ability to control rallies and dictate pace immediately put Li under pressure.
The first game began competitively, with both players trading long rallies. At one point, a gruelling 65-shot exchange highlighted the intensity of the match. Although Sen lost that rally and appeared briefly fatigued, the moment proved to be a turning point.
What followed was a remarkable burst of momentum from the Indian.
Sen launched into a sequence of six consecutive points, using clever net play, sharp angles and a stunning reverse-slice winner to take complete control of the game. His aggressive approach and precise shot placement left Li scrambling across the court. After that surge, Sen did not drop another point in the opening game, closing it out convincingly 21-13.
Maintaining Control in Game Two
If the first game showcased Sen’s attacking intent, the second demonstrated his maturity and match awareness. Li Shi Feng attempted to regroup and extend rallies, hoping to force errors from the Indian. However, Sen remained calm and disciplined, maintaining pressure through consistent attacking strokes and sharp movement.
The Chinese player tried to push the tempo and create opportunities with powerful smashes, but Sen’s defence held firm. More importantly, the Indian continued to control the front court, repeatedly forcing Li into awkward lifts. Sen gradually built a lead in the second game, capitalising on Li’s unforced errors while maintaining a steady attacking rhythm. Despite a brief attempt from Li Shi Feng to close the gap, Sen remained composed during the closing stages. A series of accurate placements and controlled rallies helped him seal the game 21-16, completing a straight-games victory.
The significance of the result extends beyond simply reaching another semifinal. Li Shi Feng, an Asian Games champion and former All England winner, has been one of the most formidable players on the men’s singles circuit in recent years. Sen had struggled against him in recent encounters, losing their previous three meetings.
Breaking that streak in such convincing fashion represents a major confidence boost for the Indian.
Equally important was the manner of the victory. After two demanding three-game matches earlier in the tournament, conserving energy became a crucial factor. By wrapping up the quarterfinal in straight games, Sen ensured he would remain physically fresh heading into the semifinal.
Lakshya’s Growing Legacy at All England
The All England Championships have increasingly become a special tournament in Lakshya Sen’s career. The Indian first captured global attention at the event in 2022, when he produced a remarkable run to reach the final. That campaign established him as one of the most promising players on the international circuit.
He followed that performance with another deep run in 2024, reaching the semifinals. Now, in 2026, Sen has once again placed himself among the final four, reinforcing his reputation as one of the most dangerous competitors at the historic tournament.
Few players have demonstrated such consistent performances at the All England in recent years.
Watch Indian Live Scores and Play Quiz – Download IndiaSportsHub App
With the victory over Li Shi Feng, Sen now moves into the semifinals where he will face Victor Lai. Lai has been one of the surprise performers of the tournament, creating history for Canadian badminton by reaching the All England semifinals. Known for his aggressive attacking style and speed around the court, the Canadian will present a unique challenge.
However, Sen’s current form and confidence make him one of the strongest contenders remaining in the draw. Sen’s run in Birmingham has been built on resilience and tactical intelligence. Earlier in the tournament he had to battle through two intense three-game matches, demonstrating his ability to handle pressure situations.
The quarterfinal victory over Li Shi Feng, however, showcased a different dimension of his game dominance. His movement, shot selection, and ability to seize momentum were all on display in what many observers consider one of his best performances of the season.
India’s Medal Hopes Alive
Sen’s progress into the semifinals also keeps India’s hopes alive at the prestigious event. With consistent performances on the world stage and deep runs in major tournaments, the 24-year-old continues to establish himself as the country’s leading men’s singles player. If he maintains the level displayed against Li Shi Feng, Sen will have a genuine opportunity to once again challenge for the All England title.
For now, though, the focus shifts to the semifinal where another victory would take him one step closer to reliving the magic of his 2022 final appearance and potentially creating a new chapter in his All England journey.
