In what can only be described as a remarkable resurgence, Srikanth Kidambi, the former World No. 1, has blazed his way into the semifinals of the Perodua Malaysia Masters 2025, a BWF Super 500 event in Kuala Lumpur.
Ranked 65th in the world coming into the tournament, Srikanth has defied expectations, storming from the qualification rounds all the way into the last four with a series of gritty and inspired performances.
His latest scalp was Toma Junior Popov, the 18th-ranked French shuttler, whom Srikanth edged in a dramatic quarterfinal clash on Friday. The match, filled with momentum swings and tension-filled rallies, ended in Srikanth’s favor: 24-22, 17-21, 22-20. The Indian veteran held his nerve in a pressure-packed decider, especially after seeing a 20-17 lead dwindle to 20-20.
But true to the hallmark of champions, Srikanth summoned his experience and composure to win the next two points, sealing his first semifinal appearance at a Super 500 level since 2022.
The Fight That Defined a Comeback
The contest against Popov was a microcosm of Srikanth’s week—a battle of resilience, skill, and sheer will. He started strong, taking the opening game 24-22 in a tight tussle, but saw the Frenchman fight back to level with a 21-17 win in the second. The third game was where the drama peaked. Trailing for much of the decider, Srikanth turned things around after the change of ends, relying on his court craft and tactical awareness.
As Popov clawed back to even the score at 20-20 in the final game, nerves were frayed in the Indian camp. But Srikanth held his ground, showing poise that belied his ranking, and closed the match with two clutch points that saw him pump his fist and let out a roar of relief and triumph.
From Qualifiers to Final Four
What makes Srikanth’s semifinal berth even more commendable is the road he’s traveled this week. Starting from the qualification rounds, where he had to earn his spot in the main draw, Srikanth has displayed the tenacity and class that once saw him reach the pinnacle of world badminton.
This week marks a significant turnaround in his career—one that has seen its share of ups and downs since his stellar 2017 season when he won four Super Series titles. Injuries and inconsistency have plagued him in recent years, but in Kuala Lumpur, he’s turned back the clock.
Breaking the French Barrier
Interestingly, Toma Junior Popov had been somewhat of a nemesis for Indian men’s singles players in recent months. In his last five meetings with different Indian shuttlers, Popov had emerged victorious. Srikanth not only broke that streak but did so in a match that could define his 2025 season.
It’s not just about a spot in the semifinals; it’s a statement—that Srikanth is not done yet. Not by a long shot.
Srikanth now sets up a mouthwatering semifinal clash against Japan’s Yushi Tanaka. The Japanese shuttler, known for his speed and attacking flair, will be a stern test. But if Srikanth carries the same form and fighting spirit, he stands a genuine chance of reaching his first final on the BWF World Tour since 2021.
A win would also make him the first Indian shuttler in 2025 to reach a final on the BWF Tour—an achievement that would certainly re-ignite hopes of a full-fledged comeback on the global stage.
The Return of a Veteran
At 32, Srikanth has seen the highs and lows of elite badminton. From winning the silver at the 2021 World Championships to battling form slumps and sliding down the rankings, it’s been a journey of perseverance. But this week, he has shown that class may dip but never fades.
With the Paris Olympic cycle now behind and new goals on the horizon, performances like these could well inspire a late-career surge. For Indian fans, Srikanth’s success is more than just a personal milestone—it’s a sign that the veterans still have fire in their belly.
From the qualifiers to knocking out a top-20 opponent in a thriller, Srikanth’s Malaysia Masters run is already one of the feel-good stories of the 2025 badminton season. As the semifinals beckon, the Indian contingent—and indeed fans around the world—will be watching closely.
Srikanth Kidambi is standing tall again. And this time, he’s not just playing matches; he’s rewriting his narrative.
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