In a thrilling quarterfinal match at the BWF China Open in Changzhou, China’s Weng Hongyang mounted a remarkable comeback to defeat Denmark’s Anders Antonsen 2-1 on Friday, securing his place in the men’s singles semifinals.
Antonsen, who had maintained an unbeaten record against Weng in their previous four encounters, started strong by taking the first game 21-19. The Danish player showcased his dominance early on, but Weng remained resilient. In the second game, the 25-year-old Chinese shuttler fought back, quickly gaining a 4-1 lead with a deft drop shot. Demonstrating determination and skill, Weng powered a smash to claim the second game 21-19, leveling the match.
The decider saw both players battling fiercely, with neither willing to concede ground. The duo remained neck and neck throughout the third game. Ultimately, Weng sealed the deal with a narrow 23-21 victory, marking his first triumph over Antonsen. This win propels Weng into the semifinals, where he will face Indonesia’s Jonatan Christie.
Earlier in the day, Christie showcased his form by defeating China’s Lei Lanxi, who had previously stunned Olympic champion Viktor Axelsen in the first round. The world number eight displayed composure during crucial points, taking the first game 21-18. Maintaining his momentum, Christie surged ahead to a 13-8 lead in the second game before closing out the match 21-12.
In the women’s singles, China’s third seed Wang Zhiyi also booked her spot in the semifinals. After dropping the first game 13-21 against compatriot Gao Fangjie, Wang rallied to win the next two games 21-11 and 21-14. She will next face Japan’s Ohori Aya in the semifinals.
Reference(s):
China's Weng beats Danish Antonsen to reach BWF China Open semis
cgtn.com
