India’s Lakshya Sen began his Kumamoto Masters Japan 2025 campaign with a composed and confident win, defeating Japan’s Koki Watanabe 21–12, 21–16 in the men’s singles Round of 32.
The seventh-seeded Indian was in control for most of the 39-minute encounter, showing sharp court coverage, improved shot selection, and the ability to close out tight situations a sign of maturity in his game as the season heads into its decisive stretch. Facing a local favourite in Watanabe, Lakshya started strongly, dictating the tempo early in the first game. His net play was crisp, and he forced errors from the Japanese shuttler with deep lifts and quick changes of direction. The Indian took the opener 21–12 in just 17 minutes, barely allowing Watanabe any rhythm.
Read Articles Without Ads On Your IndiaSportsHub App. Download Now And Stay Updated
The second game, however, was far more competitive. Watanabe lifted his level, attacking more aggressively and pushing Lakshya to the back court. At 14–15, it looked like the Japanese might force a decider, but Lakshya showed impressive composure under pressure. He strung together seven of the last eight points, turning the game around with a mix of flat drives, quick interceptions, and patient rallies to seal the win 21–16. It was a mature finish that underscored how far he has come in managing momentum during matches.
For Lakshya, this victory is more than just another early-round win it’s a crucial step in his late-season push for the BWF World Tour Finals. The Almora shuttler has been steadily climbing the Race to Finals rankings, and his form over the past two months has reflected renewed focus and consistency. A deep run here in Kumamoto could strengthen his bid for a Finals berth and keep him firmly among the top contenders in world badminton. The Indian contingent has had a mixed start to the week in Kumamoto. Earlier, Kiran George went down fighting against Malaysia’s Kok Jing Hong, losing 22–20, 10–21 in 36 minutes.
George, who had shown promising signs in earlier tournaments, couldn’t capitalize on his opening game momentum as the Malaysian took control in the second. With Lakshya now carrying India’s main hopes in the men’s singles draw, attention will shift to how he handles the upcoming rounds, where the field gets considerably tougher. Names like Lee Cheuk Yiu (LKY), Kodai Naraoka, and Chou Tien Chen are all in the mix, making this one of the most competitive Super 500 events of the season.
Fans and analysts have been keeping a close eye on this trio, but Lakshya’s steady progress could make the Race to Finals narrative far more intriguing if he manages to reach the weekend stage. A semifinal or final appearance here would not only boost his points tally but also send a clear message that the 23-year-old is peaking at the right time after a challenging mid-season period.
Read Articles Without Ads On Your IndiaSportsHub App. Download Now And Stay Updated
Lakshya’s recent performances have also highlighted his tactical evolution. Once known primarily for his attacking flair, he has added patience and adaptability to his game. Against Watanabe, his ability to absorb pressure in the second game and turn defence into attack was a telling sign of that balance. As the tournament heads into the pre-quarterfinal stage, Lakshya’s next challenge will test both his form and endurance. A potential clash with a higher-ranked or home favourite opponent could define his path to the semifinals and, perhaps, his standing in the season-ending rankings.
For now, though, the message is clear: Lakshya Sen has found his rhythm in Kumamoto. Confident, focused, and quietly making his way up the ladder, the young Indian looks ready to make this week in Japan another significant step in his 2025 journey.
Final Score: Lakshya Sen def. Koki Watanabe (JPN) 21–12, 21–16 (39 minutes)
Next Up: Pre-Quarterfinals – Kumamoto Masters Japan 2025
