All England Open 2026: Lakshya Sen Pulls Off Massive Upset Against World No.1 Shi Yu Qi In A 78-Minute Thriller

Lakshya Sen has pulled off a major upset in the first round of the All England Open 2026, defeating world number one Shi Yuqi of China with a scoreline of 23-21, 19-21, 21-17 at the Utilita Arena Birmingham in an hour and 18-minute thriller.

On the other hand, Tanisha Crasto and Dhruv Kapila progressed to the second round after defeating the Malaysian pair Hoo Pang Ron and Cheng Su Yin 21-17, 21-19.

But it was a tough day at the office for Malvika Bansod as she lost to the former World No. 1 and 2020 Olympics Gold medalist Chen Yufei 21-11 and 21-6.

All England Open 2026: Lakshya Sen Vs Shi Yuqi- Match Report

The Indian shuttler produced a composed and tactically astute performance to defeat the Chinese shuttler in the opening round. The result was his second victory over the Chinese ace, the first having come during the team competition at the 2022 Asian Games.

The opening game was finely balanced. A lengthy rally at game point proved decisive in the end. Both players prioritised control and placement over outright attack. Sen eventually forced the breakthrough and, despite facing repeated pressure as the score moved beyond 20-all, he held his nerve to take the game.

Shi responded strongly in the second. After trailing early on, he raised the tempo with a burst of quick points and dictated proceedings through sharper court coverage and more assertive play at the net. Although Sen attempted to disrupt the rhythm by altering angles and depth, Shi's ability to turn defence into offence enabled him to level the match at one game apiece.

In the third and final game, Sen controlled the net brilliantly and also dominated the flat exchanges to open up a 16-11 advantage before earning four match points. Shi saved one of them, but his lift sailed long to hand the match to Sen.

Who Will Be The Next Opponent Of Lakshya Sen In Round Of 16?

Lakshya Sen will next face Hong Kong's Ng Ka Long in the Round of 16. Long defeated Brian Yang of Canada in the Round of 32.