BUKIT JALIL: After several heartbreaks, Thailand’s Kunlavut Vitidsarn finally clinched his first men’s singles Super 1000 title by winning the Malaysian Open at Axiata Arena yesterday.
Kunlavut, however, won his title in an unusual fashion as his opponent world No. 1 Shi Yuqi of China withdrew due to back injury while trailing 21-23, 1-6.
The victory also ended a long drought for Thailand, as their last men’s singles player to win the Malaysian Open was Charoen Wattanasin, who lifted the title six decades ago in 1962.
“I felt a lot of pressure in today’s match, but it was also very exciting. This is my first time at a big Super 1000 tournament, and I really hoped to win the gold. Today is just amazing, I’m so happy.
“The match went well even though I was running low on energy.
“I knew if we had long rallies, it would have been very tough for me to win,” said Kunlavut.
Kunlavut pocketed US$101,500 (RM415,490) while Yuqi received US$49,300 (RM201,809).
Nothing was sweeter for Kunlavut than receiving his trophy and prize from his idol, Datuk Seri Lee Chong Wei.
Ironically, Chong Wei had held a meal session with Kunlavut just before the start of the Malaysian Open.
“I might ask him (Chong Wei) for a bak kut teh session again. I must thank him for all the advice he gave me whenever I had problems.
“He shared everything I needed to know, both on and off the court, and I am very grateful to him,” he added.
Meanwhile, Shi Yuqi said: “I injured my back a few days ago (during quarter-final against Lee Cheuk Yiu of Hong Kong). I did a lot of treatment yesterday, but I still felt a lot of pain this morning. I couldn’t rely on painkillers.
“It’s a pity that I lost the first game. I made many mistakes, and it affected my performance, but there was nothing I could do,” said Yuqi.
