Yamaguchi claims third world title with victory over Chen

Akane Yamaguchi produced a commanding display to defeat China’s Chen Yufei 21-9, 21-13 in the women’s singles final at the World Championships in Paris on Sunday.

The Japanese fifth seed, champion in 2021 and 2022, needed only 37 minutes to seal a third world crown, rarely allowing Chen to settle into rhythm.

Chen, the Tokyo 2020 Olympic gold medallist, had upset top seed An Se-young of South Korea in a gruelling semi-final that included an ankle injury scare. Although she returned to contest the final, her movement appeared restricted and Yamaguchi capitalised with precise placement and pace.

Earlier, Malaysian duo Chen Tang Jie and Toh Ee Wei captured the mixed doubles title, defeating Jiang Zhenbang and Wei Yaxin of China 21-15, 21-14.

(Source: AFP)