Sydney, May 29 (IANS) China’s world badminton champion Chen Long outclassed compatriot Wong Wing Ki Vince 21-14, 21-13 to enter the semi-finals of the $750,000 Australian Open Superseries here on Friday night.
Meanwhile, China’s leading lady Li Xuerui fell to South Korea’s Sung Ji Hyun in their quarter-final duel at the Sydney Olympic Park, reports Xinhua.
The top seed Xuerui fell in the first game, 17-21, after Sung maintained an early lead. World No.2 Xuerui fought back hard, showing her class on the court, taking the second game 21-10, reports Xinhua.
Sung regained her composure in the third, opening up a lead on China’s leading lady. Xuerui managed to narrow the gap to one point at 17-18, however Sung remained firm and pulled ahead, taking the match 21-17.
China’s Shixian Wang continued her great form in the tournament, defeating second seed and 2014 champion Saina Nehwal from India 21-15, 21-13.
Canada’s Michelle Li, who is travelling without a coach, spent the first game learning the deceptive Bae Yeon Ju of South Korea’s play. Li managed to win the second, however Bae re-surged in the decider, winning 21-8, 17-21, 21-10.
The Australian Open Semi-finals will be held on Saturday, where valuable qualifying points for the 2016 Rio Olympics are up for grabs.