China’s Wang says resilience key to stunning win over world No 1 An in All England final
Wang Zhiyi beat An Se-young to end 10-match losing streak against South Korean rival in Birmingham
China’s Wang Zhiyi said her resilience had been key to beating world No 1 An Se-young to secure her first All England Open Badminton Championships title, ending a 10-match losing streak against her South Korean rival.
Wang won 21-15, 21-19 on Sunday to claim her 12th BWF World Tour singles title. The victory marks the first time in seven years a Chinese player has won the women’s singles crown in Birmingham.
“I am super excited. I feel like a dream comes true,” Wang said. “Honestly, I still cannot believe I can win this match. So I am really really happy.”
The result ends An’s 36-match winning streak and improves Wang’s head-to-head record against the top seed to five wins and 18 losses.
“It means a lot to me, I think that it gives me more confidence and motivation to continue my work, so I will keep going,” Wang said.
Wang said the final had been a “difficult match” that required absolute focus during long rallies. She noted that she “had to” maintain her movement and tactical discipline throughout.