Ratchanok survives Japanese threat at Thailand Open
Top seed Ratchanok Intanon overcame a stiff challenge from Japanese Sayaka Takahashi 24-22 10-21 21-18 to the local charge into the SCG Thailand Open at the Nimitbutr National Stadium on Thursday.
The world No 8 who won this tournament four years ago shrugged off some rusty play to beat the 57th ranked opponent in front of the happy home crowd on Thursday’s evening.
“It was a very close battle. She tried to make me play her game while I also tried to make her play mine. In the third game I rushed at some points and let her fight back. But I’m physically fit and feel confident I can finish the match,” said Ratchanok who was supported by her parents in the evening session’s match.
The former world No 1 will set up an all Thai affair with Thai No 3 Nitchaon Jindapol for a semi-final spot.
“Nitchaon and I have been quite familiar with each other. We have been on the tour together all the time. So, no one has the edge in term of experience. I cannot underestimate her,” she added.
Three other Thais reaching the women’s singles quarter-finals are Busanan Ongbamrungphan, Pornpawee Chochuwong and Pattarasuda Chaiwan.
Ratchanok’s boyfriend Pannawit Thongnuam kept his cool under great tense to outlast talented young rival Kunlawut Vitidsarn 21-17 10-21 22-20 for his first spot ever in the quarter-final of the Thailand Open. He saved a match point at 19-20 in the decider before coming back to win by the skin of his teeth.
“There was a lot of great pressure out there. I let that pressure get the better out of me and failed to play my game. I just tried to be patient and waited for my momentum. I’m happy to reach my first quarter-final here,” said the 21-year-old who has won nine matches in a row. He now takes on top seed and defending champion Tanongsak Saensomboonsuk.
“He has more experience and beat me before. I have nothing to lose going into the match and hope I can put up a great fight.”
