THURSDAY, March 28, 2024
nationthailand

Pornpawee sets up clash with idol Ratchanok in Thailand Open

Pornpawee sets up clash with idol Ratchanok in Thailand Open

The Nation Thai No 3 Pornpawee Chochuwong has set up a dream semi-final clash with her idol Ratchanok Intanon after both cleared their quarter-final hurdles in the Toyota Thailand Open at Hua Mark Indoor Stadium in Bangkok on Friday (August 2).

Pornpawee sets up clash with idol Ratchanok in Thailand Open Ratchanok Intanon and her special supporter Napis Tortungpanich (national shooter)


The Thai world No 20 bounced back from a disastrous second game to beat Hong Kong’s Cheung Ngan Yi 21-15 15-21 21-12 to reach her second semi-final this year after the Thailand Masters at the same venue in January. This will also be her first semi-final appearance in the BWF World Tour Super 500.
“I’m super happy to reach my first semi-final at the 500 level. But the fact that I could fought back to win the third game and the match makes me feel even greater,” added the 21-year-old from Rayong province, who is still looking for her first career title.
After taking the opening game, Pornpawee gave in to a bout of nerves, letting a series of unforced errors cost her the second. She, however, cut down her mistakes in the decider while her rival’s concentration started to flag in the later stages.
“I’m glad that I pulled myself together in the third game. The draught [from the air-conditioner] made it tough. I just stuck to my game plan until the end,” added Pornpawee, who lines up an all-Thai affair with former champion Ratchanok, a 21-17 21-15 winner over Chen Xia Xin of China.
“She was my idol growing up. To play her in a semi-final at home is a dream come true. Win or lose, a Thai will reach the final,” said the former Asian Junior Championship silver medallist.
Ratchanok who won this tournament twice, in 2013 and 2017, said: “I don’t worry much about the match on Saturday as at least one Thai player will make it to the final. We will try to keep the title at home.”

 

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