Lakshya Sen Withdraws from Korean Open After Hylo Open Triumph
Indian badminton star Lakshya Sen has withdrawn from the Korean Open 2026, choosing to take a break after winning the Hylo Open and claim his first BWF title of the year. The Korean Open is scheduled to run from November 3 to 8, but Sen will now turn his attention to the Japan Masters later this month.
Sen had been expected to begin his campaign against China’s Dong Tian Yao. His withdrawal reshapes the men’s singles draw and leaves India’s challenge to be led by H. S. Prannoy, who is set to face South Korea’s Yoo Tae Bin. Sen was seeded fifth for the tournament, making his absence a notable change for the field.
A Timely Break Following a Major Victory
The decision comes shortly after Sen’s impressive run at the Hylo Open, where he defeated Jonatan Christie in the final. The win gave the Indian shuttler a valuable title and a confidence boost as the badminton season moves into its closing stretch. Rather than compete in back-to-back events, Sen appears to be prioritising recovery and preparation for his next appearance.
For elite players, managing the calendar is an important part of staying competitive. International badminton tournaments can demand a heavy physical and mental toll, particularly when athletes travel between events and play multiple matches in a short period. A carefully timed break can help reduce fatigue, support recovery and allow a player to arrive at the next tournament better prepared.
Sen is expected to return at the Japan Masters later in November. That event will offer him another opportunity to build on the momentum from his Hylo Open victory and continue his campaign against a strong international field.
Sen Joins Sindhu on the Withdrawal List
Sen is not the only Indian player skipping the Korean Open. P. V. Sindhu has also opted out of the tournament, as well as the Japan Masters, after winning the women’s singles title at the Hylo Open. Her decision means that two of India’s most prominent singles players will be absent from the Korean event.
Both withdrawals follow successful campaigns in Germany, where the Hylo Open provided a significant result for Indian badminton. While fans will miss seeing Sen and Sindhu compete in Korea, their recent titles underline the value of balancing tournament participation with adequate rest. The packed international schedule often requires players and their teams to make strategic choices about where to compete.
Sen’s Previous Korean Open Record
Sen’s strongest result at the Korean Open came in 2022, when he reached the pre-quarterfinals. His run ended against Indonesia’s Shesar Hiren Rhustavito, preventing him from progressing to the latter stages. The 2026 edition would have offered him another chance to improve on that performance, but his withdrawal means his next opportunity at the tournament will have to wait.
Although Sen’s past Korean Open record is modest compared with some of his achievements elsewhere, his recent form has made him a player capable of challenging the leading names on the circuit. His Hylo Open title is a timely reminder of his ability to deliver under pressure, and it gives him a strong platform to build on when he returns to competition.
Prannoy Leads India’s Men’s Singles Challenge
With Sen out, attention will shift to Prannoy, who carries India’s hopes in the men’s singles draw. His opening match against Yoo Tae Bin will be an important early test, particularly as the Korean player will have home support. Prannoy’s experience on the international circuit could prove valuable as he seeks to navigate a competitive draw.
India’s representation in the tournament will therefore be more limited than originally anticipated. Sen’s fifth-seed status had positioned him among the leading contenders, and his absence may alter the balance of his section. For Prannoy, the focus will be on producing a strong start and taking advantage of the opportunity to make a deep run.
What Sen’s Withdrawal Means for His Season
Sen’s immediate priority will be to recover and prepare for the Japan Masters. His return will be closely watched by fans looking to see whether he can carry his Hylo Open form into another major badminton event. A title win can provide momentum, but maintaining consistency across successive tournaments is one of the toughest challenges in professional sport.
His decision to skip Korea may also help him manage the demands of the season, especially after a title run that required sustained effort. With the Japan Masters still ahead, Sen has the chance to use the time between events for rest, training and tactical preparation. For now, the Korean Open will proceed without two of India’s biggest singles names, while Prannoy takes on the responsibility of leading the men’s singles campaign.
