Alex Lanier and Akane Yamaguchi Advance to Finals at BWF Japan Open 2024
The BWF Japan Open 2024 has witnessed remarkable performances from both established and emerging talents in the badminton arena. French player Alex Lanier, at the tender age of 19, has earned a place in the finals, stunning the world by defeating the current world No. 1, Shi Yuqi, in an impressive semifinal match held on August 24. Lanier, who was unseeded prior to the tournament, showcased his resilience by overcoming an initial loss in the first game (17-21) to rally back and secure victory with scores of 21-16 and 21-18. This remarkable achievement marks Lanier’s debut in a Super 750 finals, further solidifying his ascent in the sport. His journey to the finals also included a notable victory over Malaysia’s Lee Zii Jia, a bronze medalist from the recently concluded Olympic Games 2024 in Paris.
Lanier is set to face Chou Tien Chen of Chinese Taipei in the upcoming final. Chou advanced to the finals after eliminating Naraoka Kodai, the last remaining male competitor from Japan, in straight sets.
On the women’s side, Japan’s own Akane Yamaguchi secured her place in the finals, ensuring at least one home representative for the tournament’s concluding matches. The second seed and former world No. 1 triumphed over Thailand’s Supanida Katethong with commanding performances, first winning the opening game 21-14. Although Katethong managed to take an early lead in the second game, Yamaguchi maintained her composure and ultimately won 22-20, marking her fifth appearance in the Japan Open finals.
Yamaguchi will contend with Busanan Ongbamrungphan of Thailand, who is also making her debut in a Super 750 final after capitalizing on the withdrawal of top seed Tai Tzu Ying due to a knee injury. The finals for both the men’s and women’s singles will take place on August 25 and will be accessible for live streaming on the Olympic Channel via Olympics.com and the official Olympics app, subject to territorial restrictions.
This year’s Japan Open has not only highlighted the increasing competitiveness of the sport but has also set the stage for an exhilarating conclusion, with both finals promising to deliver high-stakes badminton action.
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