Lee Zii Jia to meet Naraoka Kodai in men’s singles final

Third seed Lee Zii Jia I just had a match to beat Lee Chia-Hao Saturday (June 15) to reach the men’s singles final BWF Australian Open 2024 In Sydney.

The Malaysian badminton star had lost twice in three meetings last year against the unseeded shuttler from Chinese Taipei, and the signs were ominous when the underdog won four straight points to lead 11-5 at mid-point. match.

The world number 37 impressed with his shot selection and variety as he ran away with the opening game 21-10, but Lee Zii Jia raised his level in the second game. From 5-4 down, he won seven of the next eight points to take an 11-6 lead going into the mid-match break. Lee Chia-Hao was still showing flashes of inspiration, but could not close the gap as this year’s Thailand Open winner took the second match 21-15.

Despite showing signs of cramping, Lee Zii Jia was superb early in the decider as he took a 4-1 lead. The Malaysian number one withstood a quick fightback, showing his characteristic power to lead 11-5 at the changeover. He then won the next four points take full control before completing the victory 10-21, 21-15, 21-10 in 56 minutes.

In his third final in 2024, Lee will face second seed Naraoka Kodai. The Japanese looked to be in trouble as they trailed 16-13 in the opening match against Chinese Taipei. Lin Chun-Yi, but won the next four unanswered points to move in front. Naraoka then had to save a game point, but won the first game 22-20.

The second game followed a similar pattern with the southpaw leading 13-8 before Naraoka stormed back to take a 19-16 advantage. This time, both men failed to convert match points before Naroaka won 22-20, 23-21 to reach his first final of the year.

In women’s singles, second seed from Japan Ohori Aya went to the final against Sung Shuo-Yun who was forced to retire injured early in the second game. Ohori will play Ester Nurumi Tri Wardoyo of Indonesia after beating another player from third seed Chinese Taipei Pai Yu-Po.

Indonesia Mohammed Ahsan And Hendra Setiawanwill play the number one seeds He Jiting And Ren Xiangyu in the men’s doubles final.

Australian Open Finals Day is available to stream live on the Olympic Channel via Olympics.com and the Olympics mobile app, subject to territorial restrictions.