In a thrilling quarterfinal at the Singapore Open, China’s Tokyo Olympics gold medalist Chen Yufei toppled World No. 1 An Se-young of South Korea in straight games, ending the South Korean’s remarkable 27-match winning streak. With a 21-13, 21-16 victory, Chen advanced to the women’s singles semifinals, where she will face compatriot Han Yue.
Coming into the match with a narrow 12-11 head-to-head lead, the 27-year-old Chen burst out to a 4-0 start in the first game. She sustained her momentum, weaving together powerful smashes and swift footwork to claim the opener 21-13.
An reorganized her strategy in the second game, briefly opening a 4-2 lead when Chen’s forehand clipped the net. However, Chen responded with a rapid series of attacks that forced An onto the defensive. A decisive overhead smash pushed Chen to an 18-13 advantage, and she closed out the match 21-16.
"That was an exciting match, because An performed very well during the season, including in this competition," Chen said post-match. "I made several mistakes, but I tried my best to make adjustments, and I am encouraged greatly after beating her."
The mixed doubles draw also delivered drama as China’s Guo Xinwa and Chen Huifang dominated their first game against Indonesia’s Jafar Hidayatullah and Felisha Alberta Nathaniel Pasaribu, 21-8. After conceding an early lead in the second game, the Indonesian pair fought back to 22-22 before Guo and Chen clinched the win 24-22. The sixth-ranked duo will now take on Tang Chun Man and Tse Ying Suet of China’s Hong Kong SAR in the semifinals.
Reference(s):
Singapore Open: Chen Yufei ends An Se-young's 27-match winning streak
cgtn.com
