Shi Yuqi races into BWF World Championships final

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World No. 3 Shi Yuqi walked down the court as the winner of the all-Chinese men's singles semifinal against Chen Long in the Badminton World Federation (BWF) World Championships 2018 in Nanjing, capital of east China's Jiangsu Province on Saturday.

"He played better than me today. Congratulations to him on entering the final," the two-time world champion said afterward.

Both players stayed patient at the beginning of the match, not keen on smashes. The score seesawed as the two top guns exchanged long rallies, until Shi opened fire first and took a four-point lead at 9-5. The No. 3 seed pressed ahead with fiercer attacks and claimed the first game 21-11.

Chen Long of China hits a shot against Shi Yuqi in their Men's Singles Semifinals match during the Badminton World Championships at Nanjing Youth Olympic Games Sport Park on August 4, 2018. /VCG Photo

Chen began his counterattack in the second game, winning six of the following seven points from 7-1 down. However, his faults denied his chance to level the match 1-1 despite his arduous efforts saving 2 match points.

"I certainly benefited from being younger so that I could outpace them on the court," Shi said, admitting age was part of his victory over veterans Lin Dan and Chen Long.

"I have never thought I could make it to the final. With only one match ahead, I will definitely do my best," he vowed.

Shi triumphed in both individual finals at the India Open and the All-England Open earlier this year and helped the Chinese team lift the Thomas Cup. The 22-year-old was also crowned at the Youth Olympic Games in Nanjing four years ago. But this time, his rival will be Japan's in-form Kento Momota.

Shi Yuqi celebrates after defeating Chen Long in their Men's Singles Semifinals match./VCG Photo

Momota stormed to a 21-16, 21-5 win over Malaysia's unseeded Daren Liew to advance into his first final at the World Championships.

"Momota is a complete player now, no matter in terms of his mentality, tactics or his shuttle routes," Shi said.

In their last and only encounter, the world No. 7 edged out Shi in the round of 16 of the 2018 Asia Championships in Wuhan. However, Shi might have a good chance to avenge that defeat before the home crowd.

"I feel very confident playing at home with my family and friends coming here to cheer for me," The Jiangsu native said. "I believe that I can play at the highest level with their support."

"Shi Yuqi is a world-class player and an all-rounder. Tomorrow's final will be a tough challenge for me," Momota said of his opponent.

"I will tenaciously fight to the last minute, taking advantage of my agile footwork and strength in front of the net to make the final a typical Momota match," 23-year-old added.

Source(s): Xinhua News Agency