Indian shuttler Lakshya Sen was knocked out of the BWF World Championships 2026 by 18-year-old American Garret Tan [1].
The loss marks a significant upset in the tournament, as Sen entered the match as a seasoned competitor facing a teenage opponent from the U.S. The result eliminates one of India's primary hopes for a deep run in the championships.
The match took place on Wednesday, July 17, 2026 [1]. Sen suffered the defeat during the Round of 32, which serves as the second round of the tournament [1].
Reports on the final score vary between sources. One report lists the score as 19-21, 21-19, 21-17 [1], while another reports it as 21-19, 19-21, 17-21 [2]. Both accounts confirm a three-game battle that ended in Tan's favor.
Analysts said that Sen struggled to handle the specific style of play brought by the younger athlete. Specifically, Sen was unable to match the pace, attack, and deception employed by Tan throughout the match [2].
Despite the loss, Sen acknowledged the intensity of the contest. "It was a hard-fought battle," Sen said [2].
The defeat highlights the rising competitiveness of U.S. badminton on the global stage. Tan's ability to overcome a high-ranking opponent like Sen in a major championship suggests a shift in the talent pipeline for the sport in North America.
“Lakshya Sen was knocked out of the BWF World Championships 2026 by 18-year-old American Garret Tan”
This upset underscores a growing volatility in international badminton, where younger players from non-traditional powerhouses are increasingly capable of defeating established stars. For Sen, the early exit represents a missed opportunity for a podium finish and raises questions about his current form against aggressive, high-paced offensive play.
