Chinese shuttlers showcased their badminton prowess at the BWF Japan Open, securing spots in four of Sunday's five finals after a thrilling semifinal day in Tokyo. Only the men's doubles event eluded China's grasp as Malaysian and South Korean pairs claimed those berths.
Men's Singles: Redemption Arc for Shi Yuqi
China's top-ranked Shi Yuqi advanced to his first Japan Open final with a nail-biting 21-12, 28-26 victory over France's Christo Popov. The 28-year-old, battling gastrointestinal issues this season, displayed renewed focus to avenge last year's semifinal loss to defending champion Alex Lanier – his Sunday opponent.
Women's Singles: Clash of Titans
The tournament's top two seeds will duel for glory as World No. 1 An Se-young of South Korea faces China's Wang Zhiyi. An seeks her sixth 2024 title after dismantling Japan's Riko Gunji, while Wang ended local hopes by defeating former world champion Akane Yamaguchi.
Doubles Dominance
China's women's doubles pair Liu Shengshu/Tan Ning stormed into the final with a 21-7, 21-16 win over compatriots Zhang Shuxian/Zheng Yu. In mixed doubles, Jiang Zhenbang/Wei Yaxin continued China's strong showing by defeating Malaysian opponents 21-12, 21-16.
The finals promise high-stakes action with China positioned to claim multiple titles at this BWF World Tour Super 750 event, a key warm-up before the Paris Olympics.
