Indian badminton veteran Kidambi Srikanth scripted a stunning chapter in his storied career, storming into the final of the Malaysia Masters 2025 with a hard-fought 21-18, 24-22 win over Japan’s Yushi Tanaka in the semifinal on Saturday.
In doing so, the 32-year-old not only sealed his first BWF World Tour final since 2019, but also became India’s first men’s singles finalist of the 2025 season.
This is more than just a semifinal win—it is a statement. A reminder of the class, grit, and experience that once made Srikanth the world No. 1 and a feared name on the circuit. Ranked World No. 82 at the start of this tournament, Srikanth had to navigate through the qualifiers, an unusual path for a player of his stature. But through five rounds of spirited, intelligent badminton, the Guntur-born shuttler has turned back the clock.
Vintage Srikanth, Modern Resilience
Against Tanaka, Srikanth displayed a blend of veteran composure and tactical intelligence. The Japanese shuttler made a strong push in the second game, taking a 9-3 lead, but Srikanth clawed his way back to level at 11-10 at the mid-game interval. The crowd roared in support as the Indian maintained pressure with deceptive drops and confident net play—hallmarks of his best years.
The second game was a battle of nerves. Despite a late surge by Tanaka, Srikanth kept his cool to close it out 24-22, ensuring a straight-games win that belied the tension of the contest.
A Landmark Moment
This is a significant moment for Indian badminton, especially at a time when results in the men’s singles have been inconsistent. With top names struggling and a transitional phase in progress, Srikanth’s resurgence has come at a critical time.
Notably, Srikanth becomes the first Indian to reach a BWF World Tour Super 500 final in 2025. His appearance in the final also marks the first instance since 2022 that a player from the qualifiers has made it to the final of a Super 500 event, echoing Li Shi Feng’s run at the Thailand Open three years ago.
Redemption After a Long Wait
It has been three years, five months, and five days since Srikanth last featured in a World Tour final—at the 2019 India Open. That final ended in disappointment. Since then, injuries, loss of form, and a growing field of younger players pushed him down the rankings. Yet, Srikanth remained steadfast. The hunger, evident in his interviews and approach on court, has finally translated into results.
The Road Ahead
Srikanth will now face either Kodai Naraoka (Japan) or Li Shi Feng (China) in the final. Both are top-20 players, known for their speed and consistency. But Srikanth has shown this week that his technical mastery and strategic play—especially at the net—can overcome younger, faster opponents.
His footwork may no longer be as swift as in his prime, but he’s making up for it with intelligent court coverage, tight net control, and precision shot placement. The crowd in Kuala Lumpur has embraced the comeback story, and the final promises to be a fitting stage for one of Indian badminton’s finest.
At a time when Lakshya Sen is recovering from form struggles, and HS Prannoy is nursing injuries, Srikanth’s run is a beacon of hope. For the Indian men’s singles lineup, his performance at the Malaysia Masters is a much-needed morale boost in a testing season.
Srikanth’s journey this week is more than just about individual glory—it’s a reminder of what resilience, self-belief, and sheer love for the sport can achieve. No matter what happens in the final, his story will inspire a generation of Indian shuttlers to never give up.
Malaysia Masters 2025 – Men’s Singles Finalist
- 🇮🇳 Kidambi Srikanth
Def. Yushi Tanaka (JPN) 21-18, 24-22
Next: Final vs Kodai Naraoka 🇯🇵 / Li Shi Feng 🇨🇳
India waits. One match to go. One title that could redefine a career.
