In an electrifying match at the Badminton Asia Championships in Ningbo, east China's Zhejiang Province, top seed Shi Yuqi advanced to the men's singles quarterfinals with a dominant 21-16, 21-12 win over Japan's Yushi Tanaka. Despite early challenges reminiscent of a tough three-game battle last year, Shi quickly found his rhythm and took control of the game.
"I had only faced Tanaka once before," said Shi. "He recently won five matches in a row and was in excellent form, which added significant pressure. We prepared thoroughly for his playing style and, after a cautious beginning, I finally loosened up to perform at my true level." This measured approach now sets him up for a thrilling quarterfinal clash against Singapore's Loh Kean Yew.
On the women's side, the action was just as riveting. Tokyo 2020 champion Chen Yufei met Thailand's Busanan Ongbamrungphan in a match that started cautiously before Chen sparked a 7-0 run to clinch the first game 21-16. Even when the second game turned tougher and Chen trailed at one point, her resilience shone through as she rallied to seal the match 21-17 and secure her quarterfinal berth.
The drama continued in another showdown as World No. 2 Wang Zhiyi battled South Korea's Sim Yu-jin. After splitting the first two games, Wang appeared poised in the decisive third set but was overtaken when Sim surged ahead confidently, delivering a dramatic upset in the women's singles draw.
With pulse-pounding moments and tactical brilliance on display, the Badminton Asia Championships are proving to be a must-watch for young sports enthusiasts. Stay tuned for more heart-stopping matches as the tournament unfolds! 🏸🔥
Reference(s):
Shi Yuqi advances to quarterfinals at Badminton Asia Championships
cgtn.com
