FINAL =>
https://www.tournamentsoftware.com/tournament/29025589-10ca-4357-9066-0a52021f14f6/matches/20220904
What a day of upset, disastrous semifinal result for China camp where all their marquee names tumbled and almost there were none...
Engaging men's singles match, contains turnaround and plot twisted that the veteran Chou TC overcame Shi YQ, thanks to his tactic, shot variety, well anticipation and most important element self belief, the Chinese had great start to take command in opener then fought hard to win straight games when he tried to close the gap. Unfortunately, his confidence seems faded away in mid deciding game, he missed shot that supposed to yield point at 13-11 position then his focus and momentum lapse and deteriorated quickly, never back until the completion. First ever final of BWF S750 tour for Nishimoto who rose to the occasion when Momota experiencing dark period in his career, the underdog Japanese defied all odds to create late surge surprise to seal opening game against high ranked Antonsen who made good comeback in second game but can’t execute well in crucial stages. The meeting stats favours to world number four but never say never to Nishimoto who beat the Taiwanese in last encounter nearly a year ago in Bali.
Chen YF nearly succeded to end the deadlock to beat reigning world champion in very tough match, her patience and mental fortitude finds arduous test when facing Yamaguchi. Home favourite demonstrated some the unreadable backhand defense that flat footed the Chinese several times. She had good opportunity in leading 14-9 of third game but as the top seed was far from surrender, total commitment to catch up and trying different quality shots to narrow the margin. Tai TY once again succumbed to careless game against the stable An SY, what a contradictive style of play, the Taiwanese maintains her disadvantage to keep relentless errors disrupt her rhythm.
Sensational shock by Korean back-ups Baek/Lee to topple three-time World Champions Chen/Jia who look quite tired and lack of combative attacking shots in decider, what a dearly mistake to produce service error at critical point, 19-19 as their younger opponent didn't waste chance to close out the match. Jeong NE/Kim HJ are another new prospect combination and should be watch out of their development on future years.
Watanabe/Higashino finally break Zheng/Huang winning streak, a rarity considering how formidable they are, but still beatable, the Japanese exploits some creative shots to rattle and halt World Champion attacking shots bombardment, home pair moved faster and more agile than the Chinese in some scenes with Watanabe disruptive drop shot to disguise direction. Earlier the Olympic Champions bowed out to Bass/Popor in two straight games, the Olympic Champions uninspiring form sustained as they only nailed S300 title thus far in this year.
Liang WK/Wang C salvage China total loss to book final spot, the fast furious youngsters win over Choi/Kim straightforwardly and facing the vast experienced Astrup.Rasmussen, the Danes outlast Kims who visibly fatigue in third game. A contrast outcome for 7th seed here as they were sent packing at first round last week in Tokyo. Interesting fact all of their opponents along this tournament are unseeded combination.