Sharath Kamal loses in quarterfinals of Singapore Smash 2024

The dream run for 41-year-old Achanta Sharath Kamal came to an end in the quarterfinals of the Singapore Smash 2024 on Friday.

Sharath, facing world no.6 Felix Lebrun from France, lost 1-4 (9-11, 2-11, 7-11, 11-9, 11-8) in what proved to be an interesting match-up with the Frenchman eventually coming out on top. 

The game started with Lebrun making the early inroads. Sharath was simply not able to get any momentum on his side as he was finding it difficult to handle the pace of the teenager, touted as the next big thing in the world of table tennis.

Although he did mount a comeback of sorts in the first game by scoring 6 points against Lebrun's 2 at one point, Lebrun ultimately took the first game and the subsequent two as well. 

With the score reading 0-3, Sarath did win a game with some inspired stroke play but the Frenchman came out on top eventually by taking the fourth game and the match. He has now advanced into the semifinals of the Singapore Smash. 

Coming into the main draw after winning the qualifying rounds, Sharath Kamal took down world number 22 and world number 13 on his run to the quarterfinals.

Sharath can hold his head high for his performances, especially after the tough year he has had, and will now turn his attention towards the upcoming events with one eye on the Paris Olympics.