Continental Pride – Day 3: BLIBLI Indonesia Open 2018
Some of Europe’s biggest names stood up to the might of Asia today, toppling the title-holders in Women’s Singles and Men’s Doubles at the BLIBLI Indonesia Open 2018.
· GAYLE ALLEYNE
A day after Sayaka Sato miraculously escaped a first-round defeat by Spain’s Carolina Marin, the Japanese champion’s defence of the women’s solo event was halted 21-19 17-21 21-14 by Kirsty Gilmour’s all-court prowess, including some clinical jump-smashing.
Following the Scotswoman’s inspired performance, her continental brethren – Vladimir Ivanov and Ivan Sozonov (featured image) – steamrolled Li Junhui/Liu Yuchen in straight games to ensure a new pair will stand atop the Men’s Doubles podium on Sunday. The Russians’ 21-19 21-15 success was carved out from their accustomed pattern, with Sozonov patrolling up front while his imposing partner thundered smashes from the baseline.
“I tried to play soft and carefully at the net and Vladimir was powerful and attacking. Now we want to focus on tomorrow and we look forward to that match,” said a happy Sozonov, referring to their quarter-final versus Takuto Inoue/Yuki Kaneko (Japan).