KUALA LUMPUR – Not once, but twice that Indonesia’s Gregoria Mariska Tunjung has beaten the world’s women’s singles top seed, Akane Yamaguchi.
At the Malaysia Masters today, the 31st-ranked Indonesian put up a good fight to defeat world number one Yamaguchi in rubber sets 25-23, 15-21, 21-10 in 50 minutes.
“I did better today and I aim to win this title (Malaysia Masters). Like last week, I can tell it was not her best game as she made many mistakes.
“But, I admit it has not been an easy match. I just managed my emotions and calmed myself throughout,” she told reporters after the match.
The first time she overcame the same opponent was at the recently concluded Malaysia Open, also held at Axiata Arena in Bukit Jalil, in a straightforward 14-21, 14-21 in the opening round.
Gregoria added that no matter the rank or who the player she will face after this, it will only have motivated her to do better.
“I do not wish to stop here, but will keep on going because I did not have the best game for the past two years. I wish to make up for that.
“In each tournament, I would like to prove that I can improve step by step, no matter who I face or what rank they are at,” added the 22-year-old.
Gregoria is set to clash against third seeded South Korean An Se Young in the semis tomorrow. – The Vibes, July 8, 2022
