India’s Thomas Cup 2026 journey came to a halt in the semifinals as they suffered a 3-0 defeat to France, settling for a bronze medal finish. The absence of Lakshya Sen due to injury emerged as a major setback, disrupting the team’s balance at a crucial stage.
With Sen unavailable, India had to reshuffle their lineup, exposing less experienced players to higher-ranked opponents in the knockout clash.
Also Read: Big blow to India ahead of Thomas Cup semis, Lakshya Sen to miss clash vs France; Know why
Ayush Shetty falls in opening singles
India’s challenge got off to a difficult start as Ayush Shetty faced France’s top-ranked shuttler Christo Popov in the opening singles. The Indian struggled to counter his opponent’s attacking play and precision, going down in straight games 11-21, 9-21 within 39 minutes.
The early defeat put India on the back foot, with France taking a 1-0 lead in the tie.
Srikanth unable to level the contest
In the second singles, Kidambi Srikanth took on Alex Lanier but failed to turn the momentum in India’s favor. Despite showing flashes of resistance, Srikanth lost 16-21, 18-21, allowing France to extend their lead to 2-0.
With the tie on the line, India needed a strong comeback in the third singles to stay alive.
Prannoy’s fight not enough
All hopes rested on HS Prannoy in the third singles against Toma Junior Popov. Prannoy put up a spirited fight, particularly in the opening game, but fell short 19-21, 16-21 as France sealed the semifinal 3-0.
The straight-set defeats meant India’s doubles pair of Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty did not get a chance to feature in the tie.
France script history, India take bronze
France’s victory marked a historic milestone as they advanced to their first-ever Thomas Cup final. For India, the campaign ends with a bronze medal, a commendable effort but one that leaves a sense of missed opportunity given their recent form.
Lakshya Sen’s injury ultimately proved to be the turning point, as India were unable to replicate their earlier dominance without their top singles player.