World No.25 Weng Hong Yang broke a slump that has lasted nearly a year with a sensational comeback win over Anders Antonsen, saving three match points on home turf at the VICTOR China Open 2024.

In a match that was on the edge all through its 91 minutes, Weng clawed his way back after Antonsen appeared to have a foot into the semifinals. The Dane led 20-17 but his eagerness to close it out possibly cost him dear, with Weng staying steady in the face of the onrushing Dane. The 19-21 21-19 22-20 win was his first over Antonsen in five matches.

This is Weng’s biggest result since his Denmark Open 2023 title win last October, after which he has endured a prolonged slump, failing to cross the second round of the last 14 tournaments.

“It was important to not give up and not make mistakes. My coach kept reminding me during the match that the conditions were more favourable to me. So I took my time,” said Weng.

“There was a chance my opponent would make mistakes so I just tried to make sure I didn’t make any mistakes before him.

“I’ve played him before, so I was prepared for his reactions on court. I had lost to him all four times, so I am happy to have won this one here in China.

“I want to relax now and be ready for the semifinals. I feel that my confidence is getting strong and stronger, because only through winning can I regain the confidence I once had.”

Weng takes on Jonatan Christie, who beat home hope Lei Lanxi 21-18 21-12.

Other Results

» It was a good day for Malaysia, with three pairs making the semifinals. Ong Yew Sin/Teo Ee Yi got the better of fourth seeds Fajar Alfian/Muhammad Rian Ardianto to join their compatriots Goh Sze Fei/Nur Izzuddin and Goh Soon Huat/Lai Shevon Jemie in Saturday’s action.

» Women’s doubles top seeds Baek Ha Na/Lee So Hee fell to home duo Li Wen Mei/Zhang Shu Xian in straight games.

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