Kidambi Srikanth finishes runner-up: US Open defeat to Su Li-yang. The former world number one lost the men’s singles final at the US Open Super 300 tournament in a hard-fought match that lasted just over an hour. The 33-year-old Indian showed great fighting spirit but eventually went down 15-21, 21-16, 9-21 to Chinese Taipei’s Su Li-yang.
Srikanth, playing his first final of the season, started well but lost momentum after an unusual error when his racquet crossed the net during a rally. He battled back to level the score in the opening game, but Su raised his intensity after the break. Using his speed and deceptive shot-making, Su took control and secured the first game. The second game was much tighter, with both players matching each other point for point. Srikanth showcased his experience and sharp net play, taking control during the middle stages. Despite a late challenge from Su, the Indian held his nerve and sealed the game with a powerful down-the-line smash to force a decider.
The deciding game, however, belonged to the younger Su. He came out aggressively and never allowed Srikanth to settle. The Chinese Taipei player maintained a relentless pace and built a comfortable lead. Srikanth mixed brilliant winners with unforced errors and was also left frustrated after being denied permission by the chair umpire to change his shirt during the game. Su continued to dominate the rallies and eventually earned 12 championship points. Although Srikanth saved one, Su closed out the match to win the first BWF World Tour title of his career, while Kidambi Srikanth finishes runner-up in the US Open once again.
In conclusion, Kidambi Srikanth finishes runner-up at the US Open despite a valiant effort. The Indian veteran struggled with consistency and faced physical challenges against a younger opponent. This defeat marks another runner-up finish for Srikanth, who will look to regroup and aim for a title in upcoming tournaments.