Iksan City
Indian badminton player Kiran George’s inspiring journey at the Korea Masters concluded on Saturday after a tough semi-final defeat to top-seeded Kunlavut Vitidsarn from Thailand. George, ranked 44th globally, put up a strong fight but fell in straight games, with scores of 12-21 and 20-22 in a 53-minute match.
The first game saw George hold an even 4-4 score before Vitidsarn pulled ahead to an 11-7 lead at the break. Despite George’s efforts, the Thai player’s quick movements and precise tactics kept the Indian star under constant pressure, allowing Vitidsarn to secure the game 21-12.
In the second game, George came out strong, taking an early 4-0 lead. However, Vitidsarn surged back, winning 13 consecutive points to shift momentum his way. Even though George launched a determined comeback and leveled the score at 20-20, Vitidsarn quickly finished the game at 22-20, advancing to the tournament finals.
George’s run in the tournament had been notable, with impressive wins in previous rounds. In the quarterfinals on Friday, he defeated Japan’s fifth-seeded Takuma Obayashi in straight games, 21-14 and 21-16, maintaining an unbeaten record against the Japanese player in their four career meetings.
Earlier in the pre-quarterfinals, George displayed his skills by outplaying third-seeded Chi Yu Jen from Chinese Taipei. His spirited performance throughout the tournament showcased his growing presence in the international badminton scene, despite the semi-final loss to a world-class opponent.
