Singapore: World No. 1 women’s singles player Tai Tzu-ying confirmed that she will be playing at the OUE Singapore Open that will be held from April 11th to April 16th.
In fact, nine of the current top 10 women’s singles player have confirmed their entries at Singapore Open with the exception of World No. 7 Li Xuerui of China who is still recovering from her knee injury.
Tai who is known for her amazing trick shots, was the first female shuttler from Taiwan to ever reach the World No. 1 ranking.
“I don’t feel much different as the World No. 1,” said the 22-year-old Tai.
“On the contrary, more people are trying to defeat me right now. I won’t let the pressure get to me, I’ll approach the competition with a normal and relaxed attitude,” said Tai.
After a first-round exit last year, Tai will need to work extra hard to see off potential threats posed by World No. 2 Carolina Marin, World No. 3 Sung Ji-hyun, World No. 4 Sun Yu, defending champion and World No. 8 Ratchanok Intanon, and World No. 10 He Bingjiao.
In men’s singles, defending champion Sony Dwi Kuncoro of Indonesia and Rio Olympic champion Chen Long have also confirmed to take part in the tournament.
The Singapore Open offers US$350,000 (S$497,500) in total prize money. Each singles champion will pocket US$26,250, while the respective doubles champions will take home US$27,650.
