Li Xuerui beats Wang Shixian in final to win World Super Series title
The Olympic champion is set to become world No 1 after winning the Super Series singles event
China's Li Xuerui underlined her status as the world's top player by thrashing compatriot Wang Shixian 21-9, 15-4 in the women' singles final of the World Super Series yesterday.
On a day when China took three out of the five titles on offer at Shenzhen Bay Sports Centre, Li was in a class of her own, overwhelming her opponent before Wang was forced to retire in the second game with a back injury.
The 21-year-old London Olympic champion is set to take over the world No 1 spot of another compatriot, Wang Yihan, when the new ranking list is announced this week.
Wang Yihan, who has occupied the top spot since November last year, missed the US$500,000 year-ending spectacle because of injury.
Li believes she still has a way to go before matching the success of other senior members of the mighty mainland squad.
"Perhaps I am more consistent than others and that's why I always get the limelight," said the Chongqing native. "It has been a tough year for many of us, from the London Olympic Games to this Super Series final. I am happy I could keep my composure to the end and clinch the title.