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HS Prannoy Reflects on Thomas Cup Bronze Medal Run: "Hard to Put Into Words"

HS Prannoy reflected on India's bronze medal finish at the Thomas Cup, calling the experience deeply emotional. India fell 3-0 to France in the semifinals, with Lakshya Sen sidelined due to injury. Prannoy fought valiantly in the third singles but lost to Toma Junior Popov. This was India's second semifinal appearance in Thomas Cup history after their 2022 gold medal win.

Key Points: HS Prannoy on Thomas Cup Bronze: "Hard to Put Into Words"

  • India won bronze at Thomas Cup 2026
  • Prannoy calls run emotional and unforgettable
  • India fell 3-0 to France in semifinals
  • Lakshya Sen ruled out with elbow injury
  • Ayush Shetty and Srikanth Kidambi also lost
2 min read

'These last few days hard to put into words,' says Prannoy on bronze medal run at Thomas Cup

HS Prannoy reflects on India's bronze medal finish at the Thomas Cup, calling it an emotional journey. India fell to France 3-0 in the semifinals.

"Those last few days... hard to put into words. Just pure emotion. - HS Prannoy"

New Delhi, May 4

Ace shuttler HS Prannoy reflected on India's bronze medal finish at the Thomas Cup campaign, saying it will stay with him for a long time.

India made their first-ever Thomas Cup final appearance in 2022 and clinched a historic gold medal. But in the 2026 edition, the former champions fell to France, who made their first-ever Thomas Cup final, 3-0 in the semifinal to take the bronze medal home.

"This one stays with me. For a long long time. Not just the medal, but everything around it. The build up, the energy in the group, the belief we kept feeding each other. Those last few days... hard to put into words. Just pure emotion. Grateful for this. Truly," Prannoy, who was part of 2022 winning team, wrote on X.

At this year's tournament, India's run came to an abrupt halt at the Forum Horsens, where a depleted side struggled to match a clinical French unit that scripted history by reaching their maiden final. The absence of Lakshya Sen, who was ruled out with an elbow injury ahead of the semifinal, proved a significant blow to India's chances.

Ayush Shetty, stepping up as the first singles player, went down to world No. 4 Christo Popov 11-21, 9-21 as France took an early lead. Srikanth Kidambi then battled hard against World No. 10 Alex Lanier but fell short 16-21, 18-21, leaving India on the brink.

Prannoy, entrusted with keeping India's hopes alive, fought valiantly in the third singles against World No. 17 Toma Junior Popov. Despite a spirited effort, he lost 19-21, 16-21 as France sealed a comprehensive 3-0 victory.

India's journey to the semifinals had already secured them a podium finish, marking only the second time they reached the last four in Thomas Cup history, after their historic title triumph in 2022.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

P
Priya S
It's bittersweet. After the 2022 gold, this bronze feels like a step down, but given the injuries and the tough draw, this team fought brilliantly. Lakshya's absence really hurt us. Hope he recovers soon. The future of Indian badminton is bright!
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Vikram M
Prannoy's words hit home. 'Pure emotion' - that's exactly what this team brings. From being underdogs to champions, and now fighting with a depleted squad, these boys never give up. This bronze is worth its weight in gold. Kudos to the entire team! đź‘Ź
J
James A
As an American who follows badminton, India's consistency at the top level is remarkable. From 2022 gold to 2026 bronze, you can see the program is maturing. Prannoy's attitude - grateful despite the loss - shows real class. Looking forward to more Indian success!
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Rohit P
Honestly, bronze is a fantastic achievement given the circumstances. Losing Lakshya before the semis was a major blow. But to still finish on the podium? That's resilience. My only concern is the bench depth - Ayush Shetty needs more exposure at this level. Good learning for him though.
S
Sarah B
What a heartfelt post from Prannoy. It's beautiful to see athletes valuing the experience and the bond with teammates over just the medal. India should be proud of this bronze - it tells a story of perseverance against all odds. Many teams would crumble after losing their top player.

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