Orleans Masters 2025: IND vs DEN clash; Srikanth makes main draw
Kidambi Srikanth stormed into the main draw of the Orleans Masters 2025 after dominating both qualification matches on Tuesday. Competing at Palais des Sports in Orléans, France, the former world No. 1 displayed sharp form and resilience.
Srikanth, ranked 45th in men’s singles, began his campaign with a commanding 21-8, 21-14 win over Denmark’s Mads Christophersen, ranked 52nd. Maintaining his momentum, he battled past France’s Arnaud Merkle in a 55-minute thriller. He won 21-11, lost the second game 14-21, but recovered to seal victory 21-12. His fighting spirit secured him a spot in the Round of 32.
India’s young talent also shone in the qualifiers. Unnati Hooda, ranked 55th in women’s singles, made a strong statement. She outplayed Chinese Taipei’s Tung Ciou-tong 21-12, 21-16 in her first match. Later, she cruised past Malaysia’s Kisona Selvaduray 21-13, 21-15 to book her main draw spot.
Isharani Baruah faced tough challenges but showed grit. She came from behind to beat Qi Xuefei 12-21, 21-10, 21-12. In another nail-biting match, she edged past world No. 59 Amalie Schulz in a marathon contest, winning 25-27, 21-16, 23-21.
With these victories, Indian shuttlers gained strong footing in the Orleans Masters 2025. They now aim to make deeper runs in the tournament.
