BUKIT JALIL: Women’s singles world No. 1 An Se-young can now hold her head high after placing herself alongside some of the sport’s greatest names by successfully defending the Malaysian Open title for a third consecutive time.
It marked yet another outstanding achievement for the 23-year-old, who enjoyed a remarkable run last year by winning 11 of the 12 tournaments she competed in.
Se-young overcame China’s Wang Zhiyi 21-15, 24-22, once again denying Zhiyi the chance to avenge her defeat to the Korean in last year’s Malaysian Open final.
“I think I always remind myself not to give up easily on myself, and I trust myself to keep doing that.
“Every time I face her (Zhiyi), I focus only on myself to stay confident and to play my own game.
“I honestly cannot remember the title I won last year. All I know is that I did what I needed to do in the match, and now I am very happy with this victory,” said Se-young.
As the Malaysian Open champion, Se-young pocketed US$101,500 (RM415,490) in prize money, while runner up Zhiyi received US$49,300 (RM201,809).
Previously, Taiwanese legend Tai Tzu-ying achieved a hattrick at the Malaysian Open from 2017-2019.
Two-time Olympic medallist Zhang Ning of China also accomplished the feat during her dominant run at the tournament between the 2004-2006 editions.
Indonesian great Susi Susanti had earlier done the same from 1993-1995.
Malaysia too once celebrated a similar achievement, although it dates back more than six decades, through Tan Gaik Bee from 1961-1963.
However, no one has managed to surpass the record set by Malaysia's Cecilia Samuel, who won the Malaysian Open an unprecedented six consecutive times from 1950 to 1955.
Se-young will now fly to New Delhi as she sets her sights on defending another title at the India Open, which gets under way on Tuesday.
However, she admitted that she may withdraw from the tournament if her body does not respond well.
“I’ll try my best to play, but if my body doesn’t allow it, I will take a rest if needed,” she added.
