NEW DELHI, Jul 22: India’s rising badminton talent Lakshya Sen created history by winning the gold medal in boys’ single at the Badminton Asia Junior Championships in Jakarata.
He took just 46 minutes to beat top-seeded Kunlavut Vitidsaran 21-19, 21-18 in the final to win his maiden gold in a major tournament on Saturday.
The sixth-seed Lakshya not only upset the Indonesian applecart but went on to win several hearts amidst the initial local support for the Indonesian in a near-packed hall.
“I am really happy with my performance. I got a very good support from team members as well. This Asian Junior gold is precious to me,” said Lakshya after the medal ceremony.
The Asian junior gold in men’s singles came India’s ways after 53 years. The last Indian to win gold was Gautam Thakkar in 1965.
An elated BAI president Himanta Biswa Sarma promptly announced a cash reward of Rs 10 lakh for the shuttler.
“Lakshya has done the country proud. We have been investing on youngsters and we are happy seeing the dividends,” said the BAI chief.
“It was a great occasion for all of BAI family and officials to celebrate. Winning a medal in Asia is always good, but winning gold is even better. We are really proud of the teenager,” said BAI general secretary Ajay K Singhania.
