Oh My goodness, with the way she is playing, we might be able to see her in Semifinals of China Open, i don't think nobody on her way is able to stop her.
I suspect that Shi Yuqi pleaded with the coaches to let him play and get some much-needed ranking points and also promising not to push himself too hard, safety first. S1000 event awards highest ranking points for the World Tour series, so it's understandable. Victor and Marin are back playing here too, true, they both have longer rehabilitation periods though. What to do when it's in the thick of the OG QF action. All the best, SYQ. Take care.
Thats what i like about her though. No timewasting. Many singles play do this timewasting. Its not as tactical like Doubles but its more like habit (like SJH). I think some top 8 players are like that as well.
Looking at the draw, I believe she should be able to reach the SF easily unless SJH (who is resurging) or HBJ can "upset". Given that the top half of the draw has really opened up she might even reach the final given that she gives a good fight against Ratchanok Intanon at SF most likely.
Hmm, I wonder if you consider RI as top player or not. Because NO has beat RI twice this year. But, yeah, NO's result against the top 5 is horrible, especially the recent one. I think she is aware enough on her current condition. Though I am not sure how much time she needs to solve her problems.
Actually I think WR list next week largely depends on what kind of TTY we see in this tournament. If she wins I think she can go back to 1? Haven't done the math but I think it's possible.