Japan Open 2023 HIGHLIGHTS: Lakshya Sen loses a three-setter to Jonatan Christie in semifinal

Game 3: Christie finishes a rally

Fantastic rally! Christie wins it. He sends a half smash at the edge of Lakshya's court and takes the lead to 7-6.

Game 3: Neck to beck battle

It is 6-6 in the decider. Lakshya let Christie shot go wide and levels the game. 

Game 3: Lakshya levels with magnificent return

What an enchanting return from Lakshya! Christie effects a hard flick, but Lakshya pushes a return to earn a point. He levels the game 3-3.

Game 3: Christie wins rally, takes lead

Christie wins a magnificent rally with a smash. He extends the lead to 3-1.

Lakshya forces decider

Lakshya, being the better player, wins the second game 21-13. Better defence, intent to control the net and booming smashes - these are Lakshya's strengths in the second game. 

Game 2: Lakshya extends lead

Christie sends a toss, and Lakshya makes no mistake. He sends down a mighty smash and wins a point. He is now on game point.

Christie replies with a point. Lakshya assumes the shot is going wide. He changes his mind at the last moment. He returns the shuttle, and Christie sends a booming flick. It is 13-20.

Game 2: Change of shuttle

Both players agree to change the shuttle. And Lakshya gets the first point from the new shuttle. 

But Christie deploys a strategy to play Lakshya on the edge of the court. He is hoping to get Lakshya wide, and he is successful. It is 12-17 now.

Game 2: Lakshya replies with a smash

Point for Lakshya. He sends down a flat smash. Christie gets it wrong; he tries to move in his right, but the shot lands in his left. Lakshya extends lead to 16-11.

Game 2: Point for Christie

Christie reduces the gap to 11-15. Lakshya's shot goes wide.

Game 2: Superb return from Lakshya

Lakshya earns a point for his durable defence. Christie targets Lakshya's face, but in vain as the Indian flicks to win a point. 

Christie is trying to make a comeback. He wins two quick points. It is 10-14 now.