An error-prone HS Prannoy signed off with an Asian Games bronze, India's first medal in men's singles in 41 years, after going down in straight games to reigning All England champion, China's Li Shi Feng, in the semifinals here on Friday.
The World No.7 Indian, who is playing with a back niggle, committed too many unforced errors to go down 16-21, 9-21 against the home favourite and world No. 8 Li in a 51-minute contest.
It was India's second medal in men's singles since Syed Modi claimed a bronze in the 1982 edition in New Delhi.
Prannoy was also part of the silver medal-winning Indian men's team last week.
The 31-year-old from Thiruvananthapuram made a good start but lost the plot midway through the opening game, mainly due to the errors he committed while looking for precision in his return, going wide and long in the process.
"Credit to Li. He played a really solid game out there. I had more chances in the first game but it drifted away from me after 14-14. At my current fitness level, I'm happy enough to play the semifinal on such a big stage," said Prannoy.
"It's the first time he's beaten me and maybe my fitness played a part, but today he was much better prepared. The crowd gave him confidence. I think a combination of factors gave him the edge."
The shuttler also indicated that the taxing Paris Olympics qualification schedule was taking a toll and he will have to "take care" of his niggles.
"Sadly, there are tons of tournaments before that (2024 Olympics). A whole year of qualifications and so many tournaments can be cruel for some badminton players. I need to take care of these issues (back injury) so now it's important to get back and check my whole body to make sure I'm fit the entire year."
Prannoy also conceded the difference in age between him and Li could also have been a contributing factor for his loss.
"I think age is a factor because some of them (players) are 21 or 22, and they're flying all over the court. We have to manage these youngsters but there is also some fun in that."