Rising Badminton star Lakshay Sharma Sets Sights on Olympic Glory
nineteen-year-old Lakshay Sharma from Ludhiana is making waves in the badminton world. Having picked up a racket at the tender age of seven, Sharma’s dedication and talent have propelled him to an impressive world ranking of 250, a significant jump from his previous position of 335.This remarkable achievement comes on the heels of his stellar performance at the Nepal International challenge Tournament in December 2024, where he reached the quarterfinals in the men’s singles category.
Sharma’s journey is a testament to his unwavering commitment and the guidance of his father, Mangat Sharma, a seasoned badminton coach. his impressive run in Nepal saw him overcome formidable opponents,including world number 253,Govind Krishna,in the first round,and world number 108,Vishal Vasudevan,in the pre-quarterfinals. This success earned him a valuable 2,200 points, catapulting him up the world rankings.
Entering 2025 with renewed determination,Sharma has set his sights on breaking into the top 100. Achieving this milestone would unlock opportunities to compete in prestigious Badminton World Federation (BWF) Super 300 and Super 500 tournaments, further elevating his career.
Looking ahead, Sharma is eager to test his skills in upcoming international challenge tournaments in Uganda, Sri Lanka, and Singapore, scheduled for February. His ultimate ambition, however, remains firmly fixed on representing India at the Olympic Games.
Despite his remarkable progress, Sharma’s journey has been marked by a lack of financial support. His father, who has been his unwavering pillar of support, has personally funded his training and tournament expenses.
“Lakshay has consistently performed at the district, state, and national levels,” Mangat Sharma lamented, “yet he has been unable to secure sponsorship. He possesses the talent and drive to win medals for our country, but he needs the necessary backing to realize his full potential. It’s disheartening that in an industrial city like Ludhiana, no one has come forward to support a promising young athlete like Lakshay.”
“India’s Badminton Future: Can Lakshay Sharma Reach the Olympics?”
Welcome back, sports fans! This week, I’m joined by former badminton champion and national coach, Leela Rao, to discuss the rising star of Indian badminton, Lakshay Sharma. Lakshay, at just 19 years old, has already achieved a world ranking of 250. He’s got his sights set on the Olympics – an aspiring goal that requires immense talent, dedication, and, let’s be honest, quite a bit of financial backing.
Me: Leela, Lakshay’s story is incredibly inspiring. From picking up a racket at seven to breaking into the top 250, this young man seems unstoppable. What are your initial impressions of his journey so far?
Leela Rao: Lakshay is undoubtedly a talent to watch. His commitment and recent performance at the Nepal International Challenge tournament, defeating higher-ranked players, speak volumes about his potential. His climb up the rankings is commendable,especially considering the lack of financial support he’s faced.
Me: Exactly! That lack of sponsorship is a major concern.Lakshay’s father, a badminton coach himself, has been funding his training and travel. How crucial is financial backing for a young athlete aiming for the international stage, Leela?
Leela Rao: Absolutely essential. Apart from basic training costs,international tours,specialized coaching,and nutrition all require significant resources. Without sponsorship, even the most talented athletes can hit a wall. It’s disheartening that Lakshay hasn’t received the support he deserves, especially from his city, Ludhiana.
Me: I agree. It truly seems lamentable that a potential Olympian might be held back by a lack of funding.Now, Lakshay’s target is to break into the top 100. It’s a huge jump,but achievable,wouldn’t you say?
Leela Rao: It’s a challenging but realistic goal. If he continues his current trajectory, participates in several international tournaments, and maintains his consistency, breaking into the top 100 is definitely within reach.
Me: If he reaches that milestone, he would qualify for BWF Super 300 and Super 500 tournaments. This could provide him with invaluable experience against world-class players. Do you think those tournaments are crucial for his growth?
leela Rao: Absolutely. Sparring with top players in high-pressure situations is invaluable. These tournaments expose athletes to different playing styles and strategies, accelerating their learning curve.
Me: let’s not forget Lakshay’s ultimate dream – representing India at the Olympics. It’s a dream shared by many aspiring athletes. What advice would you give Lakshay as he navigates this path?
Leela Rao: lakshay needs to remain focused, disciplined, and work tirelessly on refining his game. He needs to believe in himself and his abilities. But,equally critically important,he needs to work effectively with his coach,identify his weaknesses,and tirelessly work on them.
Me: Wise words.
To our readers, what are your thoughts on Lakshay Sharma’s journey? Should we be doing more to support young athletes like him? Let us know in the comments below. This is definitely a story to follow. Perhaps,with the right support,lakshay Sharma could be the next badminton star to bring glory to India.
