China's Zheng Siwei (R1) during the medal ceremony of the BWF World Tour Finals in Hangzhou, China, December 17, 2023. /CFP
At the end of the day, a riveting all-Chinese clash at the 2023 BWF World Tour Finals ended with Zheng Siwei and Huang Yaqiong emerging as triumphant warriors, after a grueling battle.
The intense mixed double showdown in Hangzhou teetered on the edge of uncertainty as Feng Yanzhe and Huang Dongping surged ahead, establishing a commanding seven-point lead in the second game. However, the tides swiftly turned when Zheng shifted into high gear, igniting a relentless comeback for the seasoned duo.
With unyielding aggression, they punished their Chinese compatriots, firing on all cylinders. The pressure mounted on Feng and his partner to counter the shifting momentum, but Zheng and Huang refused to relinquish an inch, threatening to dismantle their opponents despite their strong start.
China's Zheng Siwei (R) and Huang Yaqiong react after the mixed doubles final of the BWF World Tour Finals in Hangzhou, China, December 17, 2023. /CFP
With a final surge of unwavering determination, Zheng's efficacious play propelled him and Huang to triumph, sealing a hard-fought victory of 21-11, 21-18. This remarkable achievement marks their third title at the season finale as a formidable partnership.
It is worth highlighting that Zheng and Huang's triumphant campaign in Hangzhou marked their seventh title of the year. Despite the disappointment of narrowly missing out on the World Championships, where they fought valiantly but fell short in a closely contested final, the duo truly shone on badminton's grandest stages. They showcased their dominance by capturing victory in three out of the four prestigious Super 1000 events.
Notably, Zheng's accomplishment also solidifies his place in badminton history, as he becomes the first shuttler ever to secure five mixed doubles titles at this prestigious event.
Chinese players pose for a selfie after the mixed doubles final of the BWF World Tour Finals in Hangzhou, China, December 17, 2023. /CFP
"This is the final competition of the year, and I'm absolutely thrilled to have won the trophy," beamed Zheng. "Truth be told, we've been under some serious pressure since the start of the year, and it wasn't until just under a month ago that we got the green light to compete in this season finale."
"This match wasn't just a challenge in itself, it carried some major weight for our Olympic rankings. So, coming out on top and sealing the deal, it's like the cherry on top of a perfect year," he added.
"It's my second time competing on home turf, and the thunderous cheers from the live audience provided us with an incredible amount of energy, especially when facing off against foreign players."
"We've never had the opportunity to compete in a tournament of this caliber at home before, and this event allowed us to truly feel the power and support of our hometown community."
China's Chen Qingchen (L) and Jia Yifan during the medal ceremony of the BWF World Tour Finals in Hangzhou, China, December 17, 2023. /CFP
In the women's doubles final earlier in the day, the reigning champions Chen Qingchen and Jia Yifan made light work of their South Korean opponents Baek Ha-na and Lee So-hee. With little resistance, they cruised to a commanding 21-16, 21-16 victory in just 62 minutes.
"From 2014 onward, the two of us have been partners, steadily progressing together," remarked Jia, referring to Chen. "Even during our lowest moments, we never held each other back or played the blame game. Presently, the excitement for our newfound potential intensifies with each passing day. We eagerly anticipate the unveiling of our transformed selves, surpassing our previous iterations."
"I am greatly looking forward to the upcoming vacation. It presents a chance for me to unwind and recharge both mentally and physically. Having been immersed in a highly competitive environment for quite some time now, it's only natural to feel a bit fatigued in mind and spirit.
"Nevertheless, regardless of the circumstances, we are committed to giving our absolute best in the forthcoming season."
China's Shi Yuqi and Denmark's Axelsen during the medal ceremony of the BWF World Tour Finals in Hangzhou, China, December 17, 2023. /CFP
In another thrilling encounter, Tai Tzu-ying from Chinese Taipei rallied from behind to pocket her fourth season finale title, leaving the Spanish veteran Carolina Marin in awe of her resilient display.
On the other hand, China's Shi Yuqi, who had defied all odds by stunning the world No. 1 Viktor Axelsen in the first round, couldn't replicate that magic in the men's singles final. The top-ranked Dane, in less than 50 minutes, demolished Shi and completed a hat-trick of singles titles at the grand finale.