It was an exciting evening for local fans at the China Smash 2024, as both Liu Weishan and Xu Haidong triumphed in their qualifying matches, securing spots in the second round after hard-fought battles. The atmosphere was electric as the home crowd rallied behind their players, witnessing both Liu and Xu fend off fierce comeback attempts from their opponents.
In the Women's Singles qualifying, Liu faced off against the rapidly ascending Annett Kaufmann, emerging victorious in a gripping five-game match that showcased both players' tenacity. Liu started strong, taking a commanding 2-0 lead, but Kaufmann's aggressive style quickly turned the tide, leveling the score and putting pressure on Liu to maintain her composure. Reflecting on the match, Liu noted Kaufmann's impressive track record, including a notable win over Miwa Harimoto at the Olympics, emphasizing the importance of giving her best to secure the win.
Liu’s strategy in the final game was to withstand Kaufmann's initial attacks and focus on her own game. As the match progressed, Liu showcased her resilience, particularly in the deciding game where her forehand proved crucial in overcoming Kaufmann’s relentless pressure. "After a couple of missed shots, I had to remind myself that we were starting fresh at 2-2 in the final game," Liu explained, highlighting her mental shift that allowed her to refocus and take control.
Meanwhile, Xu Haidong's match in the Men's Singles qualifying mirrored the intensity of Liu's encounter, as he battled Sathiyan Gnanasekaran to a narrow 3-2 victory. Unlike Liu's explosive showdown, Xu's match was marked by strategic play, where both competitors engaged in a subtle exchange of control rather than relying on sheer power. Xu expressed his cautious approach in the match, acknowledging the need to adapt to Gnanasekaran's style and maintain a balance in their rallies. With his debut in the WTT Grand Smash secured, Xu is set to face Joao Monteiro in the next round, eager to continue his campaign.
ADD A COMMENT :