New Delhi: World Championships bronze medallist LakshyaSen says he will look to build on his rich vein of form and return with a maiden title when he begins the new season with a debut appearance at the India Open Super 500 here on Tuesday.
The 20-year-old from Almora had a good outing in the last season as he reached the final of the Dutch Open, made it to the semifinals at Hylo, and then entered the knockout stage of the World Tour Finals on debut. However, the icing on the cake was his bronze at the World Championships, which helped him to emulate his mentor PrakashPadukone and compatriot B SaiPraneeth.
”This is the first time I will be playing the India Open as the last two editions were canceled due to the pandemic. So I am looking forward to making the most of this opportunity and winning the title,” Sen told PTI after arriving in the national capital.
”I had a 10-day break after the world championships and started training from January 1st. I had some niggles but now I am back to full fitness.” Walking down memory lane, Sen talked about the time when he would come as a fan to watch greats such as Lin Dan and TaufikHidatay compete in the tournament.
‘I remember coming to India Open as a 10-year-old in 2011-12. I was inspired a lot by Lin Dan and TaufikHidayat. I have always loved Taufik’s game, it influences me a lot.