Chen Yufei produced a thrilling comeback on Sunday to win her first-ever Asian Championships title, defeating fellow Chinese shuttler Han Yue in an all-China women’s singles final in Ningbo.
The 27-year-old former world No. 1 fought back after a slow start to win 11-21, 21-14, 21-9 in a 66-minute battle at the Ningbo Olympic Sports Center. It marked a remarkable return to form for Chen, who only came back to competition two months ago following a break after narrowly missing out on Olympic success in Paris.
“I’ve learned to enjoy the game more and not let pressure take over,” said Chen, who rated her overall tournament performance an “eight out of ten.” “There’s still room for growth as I work my way back to peak form.”
Vitidsarn Claims Men’s Singles Title as Lu Retires
In the men’s singles final, Thailand’s Kunlavut Vitidsarn captured the continental crown after defeating China’s Lu Guangzu. The reigning world champion won the first game 21-12 and was leading 11-6 in the second when Lu was forced to retire due to a waist injury.
“I’ve won the Asian Youth Championships before, but this senior title means so much more,” Vitidsarn said.
China and Malaysia Celebrate in Doubles Events
- Women’s Doubles: Top-seeded Chinese pair Liu Shengshu and Tan Ning secured the title with a commanding 21-15, 21-19 win over Japan’s Nami Matsuyama and Chiharu Shida.
- Men’s Doubles: Malaysia’s Aaron Chia and Soh Wooi Yik overcame China’s Chen Boyang and Liu Yi in straight games, 21-19, 21-17, wrapping up the match in just 47 minutes.
- Mixed Doubles: Hong Kong’s Tang Chun Man and Tse Ying Suet upset Japan’s Hiroki Midorikawa and Natsu Saito to take the mixed doubles crown.
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