In a thrilling quarterfinal at the Singapore Open, China’s Olympic champion Chen Yufei delivered a stunning performance to defeat World No. 1 An Se-young of the Republic of Korea. The victory ended An’s impressive 27-match winning streak and secured Chen a spot in the semifinals.
Chen, 25, who held a slight edge in previous encounters against An, came out strong with a quick 4-0 lead in the first game. Displaying exceptional agility and precision, she maintained her momentum to take the opener 21-13.
An fought back in the second game, briefly leading 4-2 after a misstep from Chen. However, Chen regained her rhythm with a series of swift attacks, putting An under immense pressure. A powerful overhead smash extended Chen’s lead to 18-13, and she sealed the match at 21-16.
“That was an exciting match because An has performed exceptionally well this season,” Chen remarked. “I made several mistakes, but I tried my best to adjust, and I’m greatly encouraged after beating her.”
Chen advances to face compatriot Han Yue in the women’s singles semifinals, promising an exciting showdown between the Chinese talents.
In mixed doubles, China’s Guo Xinwa and Chen Lu showcased their dominance by defeating Indonesia’s Jafar Hidayatullah and Felisha Pasaribu. The Chinese duo took the first game 21-8 and overcame a fierce challenge in the second, winning 24-22 to move into the semifinals against Tang Chun Man and Tse Ying Suet of China’s Hong Kong Special Administrative Region.
