Defending champion Saina Nehwal’s title defence lay in tatters after she suffered a narrow loss to Olympic Champion Li Xuerui in the semifinals of the India Open Super Series badminton tournament on Saturday.
The 26-year-old Indian lost 20-22 21-17 19-21 to Li in an edge-of-the-seat thriller in the women’s singles competition, to draw curtains on Indian challenge at the Siri Fort Complex.
I think the difference was just some points here and there but last two points she hit close to the line. That made the difference. She is playing quite close to the line that is why she is winning matches. I gave away silly errors. I left a line call. I played well. There was no problem with the way I played. I am very satisfied with my game. I played really well.Saina Nehwal
In a nail-biting contest, Saina matched up to Li in the fast-paced rallies but she was not consistent in finishing the rallies. Li, on the other hand, blew hot and cold as some of her cross court half smashes caught Saina off-guard. Although she also faltered with many strokes.
Saina opened up a 8-5 lead early on and managed to stave off the challenge from Li till 11-9. But the Chinese soon managed to draw parity with two quick points and then turned the tables, reaching 16-13.
I should have won the first game at 20-19. Obviously such matches gives you a lot of confidence but also it can be irritating to miss out. I am good but I know I can be much better. I was not happy yesterday. I took three games yesterday. Today I could have won the first game.Saina Nehwal
Saina roared back to level with a superb drop from the back court before Li found the net. The Chinese hit wide again and both were tied at 18-18. Another miscued smash and Saina was leading 19-18.
What followed was an energy-sapping rally that ended with a return, which Saina didn’t even try. But the Indian ensured she has the first shot to take advantage as she reached the game point with a smash that Li could only send to the net.
Li then produced a deceptive slice and with Saina hitting wide and then leaving another shot from Li on the right, it was all over.
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