Nicol David too strong for Annie Au in Cleveland final
World No 1 ends Hong Kong qualifier's fine run
Qualifier Annie Au Wing-chi's amazing run all the way to the final of the Cleveland Classic came up against a brick wall in the shape of world number one Nicol David today.
After upsetting a trio of top-10 players, Au predictably found the near-invincible Malaysian ace too tough, going down in straight-games despite a close fight in the opening game.
The Hong Kong player had a flying start in the US$50,000 tournament final when she built up a 10-7 lead in the first game, but David battled saved four game balls before taking it 13-11.
David, who also ousted Au in the Tournament of Champions in New York three weeks ago was always in control from there and won the next two games 11-5, 11-6.
Au, who won five matches in a row to reach the final, won the praise of coach Tony Choi Yuk-kwan.
"She has the quality of a world top 10 player - the way she reached the final has proved it," said Choi. "After a disappointing 2013, she is coming back well and this will help as we are preparing for the Asian Games later the year."