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'Motherly coaching' helps US teen Tan stun India's Sen
The 18-year-old world number 92 stunned India's 14th-ranked Lakshya Sen 19-21, 21-19, 21-17 in the second round in New Delhi
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AFP - Thu, 20, Aug 2026
- 03:42 EDT
- 51
American teenager Garret Tan and Lakshya Sen / Wikipedia
American teenager Garret Tan, who pulled off a major upset at the world badminton championships, is backed by an all-woman coaching team that provides "motherly and big sister support" to the rising star.
The 18-year-old world number 92 stunned India's 14th-ranked Lakshya Sen 19-21, 21-19, 21-17 in the second round at New Delhi's Indira Gandhi Indoor Stadium on Aug. 19.
Tan, appearing at his first world championships, fought back after losing the opening game and held his nerve in front of a noisy crowd to seal the biggest win of his career.
The emerging talent is supported by an unusual support team, led by United States team manager Paula Lynn and women's doubles player Lauren Lam, both of whom sat courtside throughout the match.
"Every guy, I think, needs motherly coaching and a big sister support," Lynn, 41, told reporters.
"His mom was also there (in the stands). He's obviously tough as a player... but he needs those, you know... the lady talk."
Tan kept his calm despite losing the opening game and battled back after a medical timeout late in the decider when he suffered an impact to his neck and head while chasing a shot.
"I'm really proud of him that he was able to kind of like keep his focus and composure and it led him to the win at the end," said Lam, 23.
'Hard-working'
"I mean for a kid like 18 years old -- I was actually impressed," Lam said. "He's like my little brother and that's why we were sitting behind him."
Tan's powerful attacking game and resolute defence unsettled Sen, who reached his second All England final earlier this year.
Lam said the California-based player, who also trains in Taiwan because of family ties, had the dedication to make further strides in the sport.
"He's super hard-working," she said. "He's very dedicated to the sport. He actually inspires me."
Tan, who took up badminton at eight and turned professional at 14, said he tried not to be intimidated by his opponent.
"This is my first world championship and to beat such a great player like Lakshya is good," he said.
"I just wanted to go in and play my best and didn't want to really think of who is standing in front of me."
Sen, 25, acknowledged Tan's performance.
"I give a lot of credit to my opponent, he played a very solid game," the Indian said. "I gave it my all but it was not enough."
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