Singapore Open: HS Prannoy puts up a great fightback to knock out Jonatan Christie

HS Prannoy staged a sensational comeback at the Singapore Open to stun fifth seed Jonatan Christie, who fought back from a one-sided defeat in the opening match, to book a place in the round of 16 in the men’s singles on Wednesday, May 27.

The Indian veteran looked completely out of sorts in the opening game as Christie soon asserted his authority in the contest. The Indonesian dictated terms with sharp attacking play, excellent court coverage and relentless pressure, leaving Prannoy struggling to settle into any rhythm. Christie controlled the rally with ease, forcing errors from the Indian and racing through the opening game 21-10 in dominant fashion.

At that stage, the contest seemed to be slipping away from Prannoy, who lacked answers against Christie’s pace and accuracy. However, the Indian showed exactly why he remains one of the most dangerous big match players on the circuit.

Prannoy returned for the second game with renewed intent and completely changed the face of the match. Far more aggressive and level-headed, he began taking the initiative in rallies rather than letting Christie dictate the proceedings. His attacking strokes found more accuracy, while his improved net play helped him disrupt Indonesia’s rhythm.

The change in momentum was immediate. Prannoy steadily built control after the first exchanges, forcing Christie into uncomfortable positions and making repeated mistakes. The fifth seed struggled to respond as the Indian surged ahead, eventually wrapping up the second game 21-12 in emphatic fashion to level the match.

Prannoy went into the decider full of confidence, but Christie ensured the contest remained a tight affair. The decisive game developed into a tense battle in which both players exchanged points in a close encounter. Christie held a narrow lead in the early stages but Prannoy remained composed and refused to let the match slip away.

The breakthrough came midway through the decider when the Indian produced a crucial burst and scored five consecutive points to take control of the contest. That decisive run gave him the breathing space he needed against a dangerous opponent.

Christie tried to claw came back into the match late but Prannoy’s experience and composure under pressure proved decisive. The Indian held firm in the closing stages, producing a disciplined rally and timely offensive shots to seal the deciding score 21-18 and complete a memorable comeback victory.

The win is a major statement for Prannoy, given that Christie entered the tournament as the fifth seed and one of the strongest contenders in the draw.

Prannoy will now face the winner of Kidambi Srikanth vs Loh Kean Yew in the round of 16.

– The end

Issued by:

Amar Panicker

Published on:

27 May 2026 14:54 IST