Tanaka Springs Early Surprise

A tremor that rocked the seedings and threatened more aftershocks eased off as the 29^th edition of the BWF World Championships got going in Paris.

Men’s singles fourth seed Li Shi Feng crashed out in the first match to Yushi Tanaka, and when his 11^th seeded compatriot Lu Guang Zu faced match point, it looked like turbulent weather ahead for the favoured names.

But Lu, one point away from elimination against Singapore’s Jia Heng Jason Teh, steadied his ship, Teh’s moment of glory passed, and China were saved the trouble of contemplating a second major casualty early in the tournament.

“I felt I had good rhythm until three-quarters of the second game, but maybe I played just at a fast rhythm and he adapted,” surmised Teh. “I didn’t change my style and when he kept getting back my shots I panicked a bit. Quite disappointed, but that’s how it is.”

Lee Zii Jia’s comeback match was against Jeon Hyeok Jin

Among the high-profile exits was women’s singles 10^th seed Ratchanok Intanon at the hands of Thuy Linh Nguyen. Intanon, world champion 12 years ago, mentioned a back injury that she has had trouble with, and with her full range of motion impeded, her challenge fell apart in straight games, 21-17 21-18.

Another was Lee Zii Jia. There was curiosity all round on how he would fare in his comeback match against Jeon Hyeok Jin after a five-month layoff. His Korean opponent had sufficient experience and ability to capitalise on the opportunity, and Lee was stopped 21-17 21-11.

“I’m happy to complete the first match without any pain and without any injuries,” Lee said. “That was most important for me. For upcoming matches, it’s about getting my tournament feeling.”

Tanaka’s Big Moment

Tanaka, ranked No.27 to Li Shi Feng’s No.4, turned out to be an obstinate opponent whom Li could not shake off his back. Li prevailed in a tight opening game, but the Japanese was tenacious through the second and third for a 19-21 21-11 21-15 victory.

“I’m overjoyed,” said Tanaka. “I knew I would need to be not just 100 percent, but 120 per cent. I was ready to push over my limits. His attack is so good; so I had to be prepared to defend well. I’m glad to be the first person to cause an upset at this tournament.”

Sen Goes Down Fighting

Top seed Shi Yu Qi, starting his campaign for a first world title, defused a potential firecracker in Lakshya Sen. Shi, winner of three Super 1000 titles this season, looked in fine touch, but his opponent did have his moments too, as he challenged the Chinese in a close finish in the second game.

“I had my chances, but I was playing catch-up,” Sen said. “In the second especially it was close. I had to be patient most of the time, but in the closing stages, I tried to up the pace. I could’ve done better. Tough memories from last year, so coming in to the stadium, I had some doubts, but I was there to win.”

Highlights

→ USA’s Chen Zhi Yi/Presley Smith overcame Thailand’s Peeratchai Sukphun/Pakkapon Teeraratsakul 22-20 21-12.

→ Pan Am champion Viktor Lai had a sound start to his campaign as he overwhelmed Edward Lau 21-13 21-2, but his compatriot Brian Yang fell 21-9 21-18 to Nhat Nguyen.

→ Australia’s Gronya Somerville/Angela Yu prevailed over Thailand’s Laksika Kanlaha/Phataimas Muenwong 22-20 17-21 21-11.

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