In a thrilling display of determination, China’s Kuai Man overcame a tough start to defeat India’s Sreeja Akula and advance to the round of 16 at the WTT Champions Incheon.
Kuai faced challenges early on, dropping the first game 11-9 after a missed forehand return. Regaining her composure in the second game, she leveled the match with an 11-9 win as Akula missed a crucial shot.
The third game saw Akula take an early lead, showcasing her powerful forehand to secure an 11-7 victory. Not to be outdone, Kuai dominated the fourth game, surging to a 9-0 lead before closing it out 11-5, forcing a decisive fifth game.
In the final game, Kuai displayed exceptional focus and skill, taking control to win 11-2 after Akula’s forehand went long, completing a remarkable comeback.
On the men’s side, China’s Xiang Peng thrilled fans by defeating South Korea’s Jang Woo-jin. Xiang took the first game 11-8, but Jang responded by taking the second game with the same score. The intense third game featured dazzling rallies, with Xiang edging out a 13-11 win.
Sealing the match, Xiang executed a powerful forehand to win the fourth game 11-9, securing a 3-1 victory. He will face either Brazil’s Hugo Calderano or South Korea’s An Jae-hyun in the next round.
