Huge challenge: India’s K. Srikanth in action against Jonatan Christie in the first round. Srikanth won 12-21, 21-16, 21-16. — S.S.KANESAN/THE STAR
KUALA LUMPUR: India’s men’s singles player K. Srikanth is out to show that he is not past his prime just yet.
The 30-year-old Srikanth started the new year with a bang by claiming a big upset win over Indonesia’s world No. 5 Jonatan Christie in the first round of the Malaysian Open.
Srikanth had struggled to reach similar heights since taking silver in the 2021 World Championships but turned back the clock with a hard-fought 12-21, 21-18, 21-16 victory over Jonatan at the Axiata Arena in Bukit Jalil yesterday.
World No. 24 Srikanth was thrilled to get his year off to a great start.
“I’m really happy with the way I played.
“Last year was really tough for me, so it’s good to get a win in my first match this year.
“I made too many easy mistakes and gave away the first game.
“I knew I needed to do better after that to win and I’m glad I managed to do it,” said Srikanth, who is now out to continue his good form and end his long title drought in individual events.
The Indian last captured an individual title in 2017 when he triumphed in the French Open.
He came close to ending his wait for another crown in 2019 but finished runner-up to Denmark’s Viktor Axelsen at home in the Indian Open.
“I love the sport and this really motivates me to keep going,” said Srikanth.
“I want to continue working hard and try to win some titles this year.”
Srikanth also believes that he is not out of the running for a spot in the Paris Olympics just yet.
He faces a tough task to make the cut as he needs to break into the top 16 before the end of the qualifying period in April.
“I believe that if I keep doing well, I can qualify,” said Srikanth.
“But I have played in the Olympics before, so for me it’s not just about getting there but also about fighting for a medal.”
Srikanth will take on Hong Kong’s world No. 20 Angus Ng Ka Long in the second round tomorrow.
