The 2024 WTT Finals Fukuoka kicked off with unexpected drama as the top-seeded pairs in both Men’s and Women’s Doubles faced shocking defeats in their opening matches.
Men’s Doubles: An Upset for the Defending Champions
In a stunning turn of events, defending champions and World No. 1 pair Yuan Licen and Xiang Peng were defeated by Singapore’s Pang Koen and Quek Izaac in straight sets (11-6, 11-6, 11-9). Despite being underdogs with little expectation of victory, Pang and Quek rose to the occasion, delivering a flawless performance.
“I didn’t expect to come to win any matches here to be honest, and especially since they are last year’s champions. So I was just coming in without any expectations,” shared Pang Koen.
Pang and Quek quickly dominated the first two games, using aggressive winners from both wings to unsettle Yuan and Peng. The third game presented a challenge as the defending champions surged to a 6-0 lead. However, Pang and Quek’s resilience in top-spin battles and forehand rallies sealed the victory.
Reflecting on their strategy, Quek said, “We said, okay, let’s try to get one set first, okay, After getting one set and two sets, then three sets. I think it was all just a process.”
The duo now awaits their next challenge: a semi-final match against either Japan’s Hiroto Shinozuka and Shunsuke Togami or China’s Lin Shidong and Lin Gaoyuan.
Women’s Doubles: Home Stars Shine Bright
The home crowd in Fukuoka erupted in celebration as Japan’s Sakura Yokoi and Satsuki Odo eliminated top seeds Jeon Jihee and Shin Yubin in straight games (11-5, 11-9, 11-6). For Yokoi, who debuted at the WTT Finals, the victory marked a remarkable milestone.
“I was really nervous from the beginning, but Odo told me to shake that all off, which helped me to ease my nerves,” Yokoi explained.
Odo added, “We work hard every day together, which makes us stronger.”
Despite being their first appearance at the WTT Finals, Yokoi and Odo displayed exceptional skills, overwhelming their opponents with sharp chiquitas and powerful forehands. This match echoed last year’s upset, where Jeon and Shin also exited early as top seeds.
The Japanese pair now advance to face either Barbora Balazova and Hana Matelova or Miyuu Kihara and Miyu Nagasaki in the semi-finals.
The opening day of 2024 WTT Finals Fukuoka has already delivered its fair share of excitement and surprises. With more matches to come, the stage is set for an unforgettable tournament.
