Kidambi Srikanth’s long wait for a maiden World Tour crown stretched further on Sunday, as the Indian shuttler suffered a heartbreaking 21-16, 8-21, 22-20 defeat to Jason Gunawan in the Syed Modi India World Tour Super 300 final in Lucknow. It was Srikanth’s second runner-up finish of the year, and a particularly painful one, given how close he came to sealing the title after recovering strongly from an early setback.

Gunawan, facing Srikanth for the third time, registered his first win in their head-to-head encounters. The rising shuttler started with explosive intent, using his superior physicality and strength to dictate the early pace. Srikanth, meanwhile, spent the opening game feeling out his opponent’s rhythm and weaknesses, eventually conceding the opener 21-16.

The second game showcased the poise and experience that have defined Srikanth’s career. He adjusted beautifully, relying on clever placements, deft deception at the net, and measured energy-conservation to stay sharp through the rallies. His shift in tactics caught Gunawan off guard, and Srikanth breezed through the game with a dominant 21-8 win, bringing the contest to an intense decider.

The final game was a nail-biter from the outset. Both players stayed neck and neck before Srikanth twice carved out three-point cushions at 14-11 and 17-14. With momentum on his side, the title felt within reach. But Gunawan refused to wilt. The youngster clawed back, pressuring Srikanth into pushing one shuttle just a fraction too wide, sealing the match in his favour at 22-20 and leaving the home crowd stunned.

However, the fans at the BBD UP Badminton Academy did have one major reason to cheer. Treesa Jolly and Gayatri Gopichand successfully defended their women’s doubles crown, defeating Japan’s Kaho Osawa and Mai Tanabe in a gritty three-game battle. The Indians were initially caught off guard, exposing gaps in their defence and committing errors as the Japanese pair surged early.

Treesa and Gayatri regrouped impressively, switching to a more aggressive, high-tempo approach. Treesa’s powerful backcourt smashes and Gayatri’s sharp control at the forecourt began turning the momentum. Their faster returns unsettled Osawa and Tanabe, who attempted longer rallies to regain control. But the Indian duo held firm, showing resolve and tactical maturity to close out the match and lift the title once again.

While Srikanth’s wait continues, Treesa and Gayatri ensured India did not leave the tournament empty-handed, reaffirming their growing stature on the international stage.