Indian shuttler HS Prannoy exited the China Open after a hard-fought three-set loss to Chinese Taipei’s Chou Tien Chen, admitting that the intense pace of top-level badminton truly hit him during the match.
A Promising Start Fades
Prannoy began the Round of 16 encounter strongly, clinching the first set 21-18. He even held a 9-7 lead in the second set, showing glimpses of his formidable skill. However, the momentum soon shifted dramatically.
Chou Tien Chen’s Relentless Drive
Chou Tien Chen, two years Prannoy’s senior at 35, is renowned for his extraordinary fitness and relentless presence on the BWF circuit. Having played 24 tournaments last year, more than any other top-30 shuttler, his consistency is unparalleled. This incredible playing rate, especially for a cancer survivor, speaks volumes about his dedication and endurance.
Chou’s ability to maintain high intensity and pick at opponents’ weaknesses proved crucial. His non-stop form allowed him to turn the tide decisively.
The Turning Point
After Prannoy’s strong start, his energy reserves seemed to deplete, a consequence of his own taxing five-match point saving victory in the first round of the Super 1000 tournament. Chou capitalized on this, specifically targeting Prannoy’s low backhand defense.
A pivotal moment came in the second set when Chou unleashed a six-point streak, turning a 13-13 tie into a commanding 19-13 lead. He went on to win the second set 21-15, and then dominated the decider 21-8, securing the match in 65 minutes.
Prannoy’s Post-Match Reflection
Prannoy openly discussed the challenges he faced, citing “rustiness” from inconsistent play at the sport’s highest echelons. He explained that playing frequently against top-quality opponents is vital to truly understand the pressure involved.
He noted that the third set felt less about physical exhaustion and more about a lack of rhythm and precision. “I was not getting the length at the back all of a sudden. Just felt it was too tight at the net. He was pushing from the net,” Prannoy stated, acknowledging Chou’s ability to exert pressure.
Key Takeaways
- HS Prannoy won the first set but couldn’t maintain his lead against a highly consistent opponent.
- Chou Tien Chen’s exceptional fitness and relentless tournament schedule were key factors in his dominant performance.
- Prannoy attributed his loss to a combination of rustiness and the immense pressure exerted by Chou.
Despite the frustration, Prannoy’s performance in the tournament, especially his first-round win, showcased his resilience. The loss serves as a reminder of the unforgiving demands of elite-level badminton and the importance of consistent competitive exposure.
