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Indian shuttler HS Prannoy narrowly missed causing a major upset at the BWF World Championships, losing to world No. 2 Anders Antonsen of Denmark in a intense second-round match that lasted nearly 90 minutes with a score of 8-21, 21-17, 21-23 on Wednesday night in Paris.The 2023 bronze medalist Prannoy held two match points but ultimately couldn’t convert them into victory against the Danish player.“Played a few bad shots towards the end. I should have kept a little more energy and tried to be on the attacking side. In the last 3-4 points, I felt he was on the attack and I gave him a few easy smashes that probably changed the game. I should have taken a few more chances at the net and played patiently,” Prannoy said after the match.Currently ranked 34th globally, Prannoy recovered from a poor first game to win the second and force a deciding game. Despite building momentum and pushing Antonsen to the limit, crucial errors proved costly.“Losing match points always hurts, especially in big events. One match can change the course of a tournament. Beating somebody in form gives you a lot of confidence, but if you are on the other side it takes your entire effort away and you start doubting yourself again. I really didn’t want to be in that situation,” he added.
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The 33-year-old 2022 Thomas Cup winner has faced numerous health challenges, including a chronic stomach disorder, back injury, and chikungunya before the Paris Olympics, leading him to take a break after the Games.“I’ve been trying to constantly improve on that front. Game-wise I’m there, I can still play a couple of years more, but fitness-wise I’m not able to keep up with these youngsters. The pace is too high and sometimes the body doesn’t react as I want it to. It’s a tad slower. That’s part and parcel of the game — the sport is fast and explosive.”Regarding his future in the World Championships, Prannoy indicated he might make one final appearance before his physical condition forces him to make a decision about his career.“Probably one more. You want to push for a couple more years, but maximum would be one, and that too if I stretch really hard,” he said.
