Iksan City
Indian badminton player Kiran George has reached the semifinals of the Korea Masters by defeating Japan’s Takuma Obyashi in a strong quarterfinal performance on Friday. George, 24, showcased his skill by winning in straight games, 21-14, 21-16, completing the match in just 39 minutes.
In the first game, George took control early with a 5-1 lead, maintaining his advantage to close out the game at 21-14. The second game saw a spirited attempt by Obyashi to catch up, but George held firm, leading 11-8 at the mid-game break and finishing with a decisive 21-16.
George, currently ranked World No. 44, has kept an unbeaten record against Obyashi in all four of their career encounters. Earlier in the tournament, George overcame third-seeded Chi Yu Jen of Chinese Taipei in a tight match, winning 21-17, 19-21, 21-17 to secure his place in the quarterfinals.
The Indian shuttler now faces top-seeded Kunlavut Vitidsarn of Thailand in the semifinals on Saturday, hoping to continue his impressive run at this BWF Super 300 tournament. George is the only Indian player remaining in the Korea Masters.
