Parupalli Kashyap on Lakshya Sen's Performance at BWF World Championships

Senior India shuttler Parupalli Kashyap believes that rising star Lakshya Sen has the ability to defeat any player on his day. Sen recently secured a victory against Jeon Hyeok-jin of South Korea in straight games, advancing to the pre-quarterfinals in the ongoing BWF World Championships.

In an interview with JioCinema, Kashyap discussed Sen's performance at the ongoing BWF World Championships and his consistent progress throughout the years. Sen's next opponent will be Thailand's Kunlavut Vitidsarn.

When asked to describe Sen, Kashyap used the word "exciting." He praised Sen for his rapid development and ability to deliver strong performances consistently.

"I would say (he's) exciting (to watch). He's come up so well in a very quick time. He's able to match performance after performance. It's not like he's played one particular tournament well and then faded away," the Hyderabadi shuttler said.

Unlike some players who excel in one tournament but then fade away, Sen maintains a high level of play every few months. Kashyap attributes this consistency to Sen's dedication to training and his positive attitude. He commends Sen for remaining calm when necessary and displaying aggression when it is called for.

"Every second, third month he's able to string in performances and is doing well. Consistency is there in training and he has a good attitude and a good head. He keeps calm in situations which demand it and then he is aggressive and exciting to watch when the situation requires it," Kashyap said.

Kashyap firmly believes that Sen is a potential medal contender at the World Championships. When he is fit, he has proven himself capable of causing major upsets and defeating any opponent on a given day.

"He is doing well consistently. When he's fit he can pull off major upsets and is capable of beating any player on his day. If you see his previous performances, he has a good chance to win a medal. He's already won a medal (Bronze medal at the BWF World Championships 2021), so that burden is off his head," Kashyap said.

Based on his previous performances, there is a good chance that he could win a medal again. Having already secured a bronze medal at the 2021 BWF World Championships, there is no burden weighing him down.

"I would just ask him to enjoy himself because he looks like a guy that enjoys playing badminton. There are a few players who like winning and there are some who look a little forced. I think you just think of pressure as a positive to stay alert and keep working and don't be complacent in your training," the 36-year-old added further.

In terms of managing pressure and challenges, Kashyap advised Sen to simply enjoy himself on the court because he appears to genuinely love playing badminton. Some players focus solely on winning while others seem more forced in their approach. Kashyap suggests viewing pressure as a positive factor that keeps one alert and motivated during training sessions.

Kashyap believes one of the reasons why Sen poses a threat to his opponents is his speed. The youngster demonstrated exceptional skills during the recent Canada Open where shuttle speeds were quite fast.

"He's fast. In the recent tournament, he won (Canada Open), the shuttles were quite quick. He was fantastic in those conditions. It depends on how the conditions are and where they are playing," Kashyap signed off.