Malaysia Open 2025: Indian Badminton Stars Eye a Fresh Start

 

The Malaysia Open kicks off the badminton season with high stakes for Indian players, marking the start of a new era post-Paris Olympics. With new coaches and fresh strategies, Indian shuttlers aim to climb higher on the BWF titles ladder, focusing on consistency and big tournament wins.

 

Men’s Singles: Lakshya Sen and HS Prannoy in Focus

 

Lakshya Sen enters 2025 with renewed confidence after a stellar finish to last year, including a Super 300 title at the Syed Modi International and a podium finish at the King’s Cup in China. The 22-year-old, ranked world No. 12, now seeks to break into the top 8. His campaign starts against Chi Yu Jen, with a potential clash against fourth seed Viktor Axelsen in the second round—a rematch of their Olympic semifinal where Sen came close to victory.

 

Meanwhile, HS Prannoy is making a comeback after a four-month hiatus due to health issues. Dropping to world No. 26, the veteran shuttler looks to reclaim his spot among the top players. He begins against Canadian Brian Yang, with a challenging second-round match against Li Shi Feng likely on the cards. Priyanshu Rajawat, another rising star, faces Li in the first round, adding more intrigue to this stacked section.

 

Men’s Doubles: Satwik-Chirag Aim for Glory

 

India’s most reliable doubles pair, Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty, return to Malaysia with unfinished business. Last year’s finalists are determined to go all the way under the guidance of their new coach, Tan Kim Her. Despite limited match practice since the Olympics, the seventh-seeded duo will draw on their experience and tactical preparation.

 

Their journey begins against Ming Che Lu and Tang Kai Wei, followed by a possible clash with fourth seeds Fajar Alfian and Muhammad Rian Ardianto—a pair they’ve consistently dominated in past encounters.

 

The Bigger Picture

 

With the absence of PV Sindhu, women’s badminton in India will focus on strengthening its bench, while the men’s singles and doubles players aim for consistency and titles. The 2025 Malaysia Open is not just the start of a season; it’s a test of resilience and ambition for India’s top shuttlers.