Top Guns Out-Gunned – Day 1: DANISA Denmark Open 2018
Some big names suffered some big falls on the opening day of the DANISA Denmark Open 2018 – Presented by VICTOR, with China enduring a double whammy in Men’s Singles.
· GAYLE ALLEYNE I BADMINTONPHOTO
The badminton powerhouse first saw its Olympic titan, Chen Long, succumb to the skilled Ng Ka Long, 22-20 21-15, in the early afternoon. This was followed by the late-night demise of No.3 seed, Shi Yuqi, at the hands of Sameer Verma. The young Indian took down the Chinese heir apparent 21-17 21-18.
The narrative could have been worse for Chinese fans as iconic veteran, Lin Dan, found himself in a midnight maelstrom against blossoming Thai player, Kantaphon Wangcharoen. However, the two-time Olympic gold medallist – who turned 35 last Sunday – showed his class in the decider, striding into the second round, 21-13 14-21 21-7; a date with defending champion Kidambi Srikanth awaits him.
Meanwhile, Hong Kong’s Ng (featured image) was thrilled to overcome Chen, particularly given his opponent’s 14-8 lead in the first game. Chipping away at the deficit, the 24-year-old drew level at 18-18 and seized the advantage on his second game point.