NEW DELHI: India Kidambi Srikanth he finished runner-up at the US Open Super 300 badminton tournament after losing the men’s singles final to Su Li-yang of Chinese Taipei. The 33-year-old former world No. 1 showed great fighting spirit to recover from losing the first game, but eventually lost 15-21, 21-16, 9-21 in a physically demanding contest that lasted just over an hour.Playing his first final of the season, Srikanth got off to a flying start but lost momentum after a freak mistake when his racket crossed the net during a rally. Although he struggled to tie the score midway through the first game, Su turned up the intensity after the break, using his speed and deceptive shooting to take control and secure the first game.The second game was much tighter, with both players playing each other point for point. Srikanth showed his experience and sharp game at the net, taking control during the middle stages of the game. Despite a late challenge from Su, the Indian hero held his nerve, earning more game points before sealing the match with a powerful line drive to force a decisive third game.
Su dominates the final game to win the first title
The decision, however, went to the younger Su, who started aggressively and did not allow Srikanth to settle down. The Chinese Taipei player maintained a relentless pace and built a comfortable lead. Srikanth mixed brilliant winners with unforced errors and was also left frustrated after the chair umpire denied him permission to change his shirt during the match.Su continued to dominate the rallies and eventually took 12 championship points. Although Srikanth saved one, Su closed out the match to win the first BWF World Tour title of his career, while Srikanth had to settle for another runner-up finish.
