Velavan Senthilkumar Storms into Czech Open Final, Eyes Second Title of the Season

Indian squash player Velavan Senthilkumar has booked his place in the final of the Czech Open in Brno after producing an impressive straight-game victory over France’s Auguste Dussourd in the semifinals on Sunday.

The fourth-seeded Indian defeated the world No. 32 Frenchman 11-7, 12-10, 11-1 in the USD 35,000 PSA Copper-level tournament. Senthilkumar will now face top seed Greg Lobban of Scotland, currently ranked world No. 31, in the title clash as he looks to secure his second trophy of the season.

Lobban reached the final after defeating France’s Toufik Mekhalfi 11-9, 11-5, 11-4 in the other semifinal.

Senthilkumar had earlier secured his semifinal berth with a convincing 11-3, 11-8, 11-7 win over Argentina’s Jeremias Azana in the quarterfinals. The Indian dominated the opening game before facing stiffer resistance as the rallies became quicker and more competitive. However, his sharp play at the front of the court helped him maintain control and close out the match in straight games.

His run to the final also included a commanding 11-4, 11-7, 11-2 victory over Brazil’s Diego Gobbi in the second round. He received a bye in the opening round.

The Czech Open campaign follows a successful season for the Indian, who claimed his maiden PSA Copper-level title at the Budapest Open in August. He defeated Hungary’s top player Balazs Farkas in straight games in the final to secure the biggest title of his career and his second overall.

Senthilkumar carried that momentum into the 2026 Asian Games in Aichi-Nagoya, where he helped India win bronze in the mixed team event alongside Joshna Chinappa. He was also part of the Indian men's team that secured another bronze medal after losing 2-1 to Malaysia in the semifinals.

A victory in Brno would further strengthen Senthilkumar's growing position on the international squash circuit. The sport is also preparing for a historic milestone, with squash set to make its Olympic debut at the Los Angeles 2028 Games.

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