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It’s a massive day for the Indian badminton team as they won the first-ever gold medal in Thomas Cup in 73 years. The Men’s team defeated 14-time champions Indonesia to bring the title home. Kidambi Srikanth won the third match against Jonathan Christie to give India an unassailable lead of 3-0.

Srikanth took the game home in straight games to bring the historic victory for India. As soon as the Indian shuttler scored the winning point against Christie, the whole contingent went into a frenzy. All team members jumped onto the court to celebrate the moment.

It was a moment full of emotions as India had achieved something incredible. Players looked overwhelmed with this win. The emotions also poured out during the award distribution ceremony. The players could be seen teary-eyed while the national anthem played.

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India show unbelievable professionalism

Now coming to the tournament, it was an incredible performance from the Indian Men’s team throughout. They first whitewashed Germany and Canada in the Group ties. Despite losing 2-3 to Chinese Taipei, India finished second in the group and booked themselves a Quarterfinal spot against Malaysia.

In the knockout game, India beat Malaysia 3-2 and progressed to the semis. Against Denmark in the Semifinal, India once again showed a top-class performance to beat Denmark 3-2. But they had a big challenge in the form of 14-time champions Indonesia waiting for them in the Final. Nonetheless, the team showed immense courage to not only win their maiden Thomas Cup title but by thrashing the most successful team.

Kidambi Srikanth was the standout performer for India as the World no.11 did not lose a single game in the tournament. In the semifinal, Srikanth beat Anders Antonsen in three games to give India a lead. He then overcame Jonathan Christie (21-15, 23-21) in the Final to seal it for India.