Daijiworld Media Network- Paris
Paris, Aug 28: Indian shuttler HS Prannoy came agonisingly close to a stunning upset, but eventually bowed out to Denmark’s world No. 2 Anders Antonsen in a gripping second-round encounter at the BWF World Championships on Wednesday night.
The match, lasting nearly 90 minutes, saw Prannoy fight back after a poor start before going down 8-21, 21-17, 21-23. The 2023 bronze medalist had two match points in the deciding game but crucial errors at key moments allowed Antonsen to snatch victory.
Reflecting on the defeat, Prannoy admitted that fatigue and lapses in judgment cost him the match. “In the last 3-4 points, I gave him a few easy smashes that probably changed the game. I should have been more patient and taken my chances at the net,” he said.
Currently ranked 34th in the world, the 33-year-old Prannoy has battled health setbacks — including a chronic stomach disorder, back injury, and chikungunya — but remains determined to continue. “Game-wise I’m there, but fitness-wise it’s tough to keep pace with the youngsters. Probably one more World Championships — that would be the maximum if I really stretch,” he added.
Despite the loss, Prannoy’s spirited performance against a top-ranked rival underlined his resilience and fighting spirit on the global stage.