Lakshya Sen exited in the semifinals of the Japan Masters Super 500 after a hard-fought three-game loss to Japan’s Kenta Nishimoto in Kumamoto on Saturday.
Lakshya led early but Nishimoto’s sharp smashes turned the opening game in his favour, taking it 21-19. The Indian fought back strongly, slowing rallies and exploiting Nishimoto’s discomfort to claim the second game 21-14. In the decider, Nishimoto regained control, racing to a big lead before sealing the match 21-12.
Lakshya had earlier beaten world No. 9 Loh Kean Yew to reach the last four. With his exit, India’s campaign at the event ended.