China’s rising badminton star, 18-year-old Hu Zhean, delivered a stunning performance by defeating former world champion Loh Kean Yew of Singapore in straight games at the inaugural King Cup in Shenzhen, south China’s Guangdong Province, on Friday.
In a display of skill and composure beyond his years, Hu secured a 21-15, 21-15 victory over Loh, setting up a semifinal clash with India’s Lakshya Sen.
“I faced a very strong opponent at the start of this event, and I think we both performed well, but I was more decisive on some key points,” Hu said after the match. “This is my first time competing against top players, so it was very difficult to win the match, and I am very excited.”
Backed by Chinese badminton legend Lin Dan, the King Cup features only men’s singles matches in its inaugural edition. The tournament boasts a competitive lineup, including former world champions Loh and Kunlavut Vitidsarn of Thailand, along with Denmark’s World No. 2 Anders Antonsen.
In other quarterfinal action, France’s Alex Lanier edged past China’s Wang Zijun to advance to the semifinals. Wang, who is also 18, took the first game 21-15, but the 19-year-old Lanier rallied to win the next two games, securing a 2-1 come-from-behind victory. Lanier will face Antonsen in the semifinals.
The King Cup provides a unique platform for emerging talents like Hu and Wang to compete against top-ranked players on home soil. As the tournament progresses, all eyes will be on Hu Zhean to see if he can continue his remarkable run and perhaps clinch the title in front of the home crowd.
Reference(s):
China's Hu stuns former world champion Loh at King Cup Badminton Open
cgtn.com
