Xiamen, Fujian Province – The Chinese mainland team kicked off its Sudirman Cup title defense in style, dominating Algeria 5-0 in Group A action on Sunday.
World No. 1 mixed doubles stars Jiang Zhenbang and Wei Yaxin set the tone with a convincing 21-11, 21-13 victory over Koceila Mammeri and Tanina Violettle Mammeri. "It's exciting to make our Sudirman Cup debut in China's first match," said Wei. "Team competitions feel very different from tour events and every point matters for the squad."
Next up, world No. 2 women's singles Wang Zhiyi and top-ranked men's singles player Shi Yuqi each sealed straight-game wins, extending the score to 3-0. "Playing my fifth Sudirman Cup shows I've maintained my level for a long time," Shi reflected after his match.
The sweep was completed in the doubles courts as Paris Olympic women's doubles champions Chen Qingchen and Jia Yifan, alongside debutants Chen Boyang and Liu Yi, both delivered 2-0 results to cap the 5-0 triumph.
On the same day, Thailand also blanked Hong Kong, China 5-0, leaving both teams tied atop Group A. Elsewhere in Group B, four-time champions South Korea cruised past Czech Republic 4-1, while Chinese Taipei edged Canada 4-1. In Group D action, Denmark defeated India 4-1 and Indonesia trounced England 5-0.
The Sudirman Cup, badminton's premier mixed-team championship, continues through May 4 in Xiamen, bringing together the world's best to compete for global glory.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
