Harmeet Desai's Olympic Journey Ends in Second Round

Harmeet Desai's maiden Olympic campaign in men's singles table tennis ended with a 0-4 loss to Felix Lebrun in the second round. Despite his initial victory over Jordan's Zaid Abo Yaman, Desai struggled to maintain form. His exit, along with veteran Sharath Kamal's early departure, concluded India's participation in men's singles table tennis.

Harmeet Desai's maiden Olympic campaign in the men's singles table tennis came to an end as he suffered a 0-4 defeat against world no. 5 Felix Lebrun from France in the second round.

The 31-year-old Indian struggled to find his rhythm, ultimately going down 8-11, 8-11, 6-11, 8-11 in a 28-minute match, marking the end of India's journey in the men's singles competition.

Having joined the Olympics after impressive performances at the Commonwealth Games and thorough preparations in Germany, Desai's struggle against the 17-year-old French player was surprising. His earlier 4-0 victory over Jordan's Zaid Abo Yaman had raised hopes.

In another setback for India, veteran Sharath Kamal exited the singles competition after a 2-4 defeat to Slovenia's Deni Kozul.