PETALING JAYA: National women’s singles shuttler Wong Ling Ching’s (pic) campaign at the German Open may have ended in the quarter-finals, but she left Mulheim with plenty of positives.
The 22-year-old Ling Ching went down 16-21, 13-21 to China’s Han Qianxi on Friday, with unforced errors proving costly despite her fighting display.
A day earlier, Ling Ching had produced one of the biggest upsets of her career by stunning world No. 8 Pornpawee Chochuwong of Thailand 21-14, 21-19 in the second round.
She had also turned heads previously at the SEA Games in Thailand when she defeated Paris Olympic bronze medallist Gregoria Mariska in the team event.
National singles coaching director Kenneth Jonassen said Ling Ching had shown clear improvement, particularly in her tactical awareness and ability to manage emotions in key moments.
However, he acknowledged there is still room for improvement.
“The key was following the tactical plan and being able to deal with the situation and emotions when you are on the verge of an important win.
“She did both well and that gave her the match. Respect to her and our team of coaches,” said Jonassen.
Ling Ching, currently ranked world No. 41 will not feature in the All-England starting Tuesday, but will remain in Europe to prepare for the Swiss Open from March 10-15 alongside K. Letshanaa.
QUARTER-FINAL RESULTS
(Malaysians only)
Men’s doubles: Chiu Hsiang-chieh-Wang Chi-lin (Tpe) bt Goh Sze Fei-Nur Izzuddin Rumsani 16-21, 21-16, 21-18.
Women’s singles: Han Qianxi (Chn) bt Wong Ling Ching 21-16, 21-13.
Mixed doubles: Terry Hee-Gloria Emanuelle (Sin-Ina) bt Goh Soon Huat-Shevon Lai Jemie 21-17, 21-13.
