Changzhou: Indonesia’s Anthony Sinisuka Ginting extended his giant-killing spree on the badminton court with a stunning victory over World No. 5 Chou Tien Chen of Taiwan 12-21, 21-17, 21-15 in the semi-final of China Open on Saturday.
The unseeded Ginting was undoubtedly the biggest disruptor and dark horse of the 2018 China Open men’s singles category, as his stunning performances of late have left the badminton world in awe.
He defeated two-time Olympic champion Lin Dan in the first round, World No. 1 Viktor Axelsen in the second round, the 2016 Olympic champion Chen Long in the quarter-finals, and No. 5 seeds Chou Tien Chen in the semi-finals. Beating all these badminton big guns reflected on how significant an achievement it was for Ginting to make the final of China Open.
Ginting who had played three deciders in last four matches, attributed the victories to his mental toughness.
“Every time after I lost the first game, I kept telling myself that I can’t lose the second game and I keep reminding myself to stay focus, focus, and focus,” said Ginting.
Ginting will take on reigning World Champion Kento Momota in the final.
Kento Momota, on the other hand, has continued his red hot form to overcome Shi Yuqi of China 21-10, 21-17 in 40 minutes.
Momota extended his career winning record against Shi to 3-0 after Saturday’s victory.
In women’s singles competition, Carolina Marin of Spain will play Chen Yufei of China for the China Open crown.
Meanwhile, World No. 1 men’s pair Marcus Fernaldi Gideon/Kevin Sanjaya Sukamuljo suffered a shock defeat as they we outlasted by World No. 23 Han Chengkai/Zhou Haodong of China 19-21, 21-11, 17-21.
