WTT Contender Rio de Janeiro 2023: 6th seed Franziska secures quarterfinal spot

Posted : 12 August 2023

6th seed Patrick Franziska, a strong contender for the title, successfully overcame the resilient defender Yang Wang with a 3-1 victory (11-6, 11-7, 9-11, 11-5) to secure his spot in the quarterfinals at WTT Contender Rio de Janeiro 2023.

Despite Wang's recent streak of upsets, the German player was well-prepared for the challenge. Franziska began the match with determined intensity, pushing Wang away from the table and forcing him to move laterally. This strategic approach kept Franziska in control, preventing Wang from finding his rhythm.

After the match, Franziska acknowledged the difficulty of playing against such a skilled defender as Wang. He expressed his relief and happiness about advancing to the quarterfinals, especially considering Wang's reputation. Franziska's ability to adapt and employ both power and intelligence in his game proved crucial.

The third game demonstrated Wang's resilience as he adjusted his tactics, focusing on tighter serves and a shorter game. This adjustment caused Franziska to drop his first game of the event. However, Franziska maintained his composure and capitalized on his strengths, particularly his potent backhand, to regain control and secure victory.

Franziska is now set to face the in-form Cho Seungmin in the quarterfinals, displaying his confidence and determination to progress further in the tournament.

Another confident player is Hina Hayata, the top seed, who defeated Christina Kallberg in straight games (11-6, 11-9, 12-10). Hayata dominated the first game, taking a commanding 9-2 lead before sealing the victory.

Kallberg mounted a challenge in the second set by capitalizing on Hayata's serves, leading to a 4-7 advantage. However, Hayata regrouped and reclaimed four consecutive points to secure the second game.

In the final game, Kallberg continued to perform well, building a four-point lead and game point. Hayata, displaying remarkable determination, initiated a thrilling comeback by employing spinier shots, securing six consecutive points and saving four game points to achieve victory.

Hayata aims to maintain her momentum as she advances to face Prithika Pavade in the quarterfinals. Pavade, having already defeated strong opponents such as Sarah De Nutte and Jeon Jihee in Rio, is also poised to make her mark on the tournament.

WTT Contender Rio de Janeiro 2023: 6th seed Franziska secures quarterfinal spot

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