KUALA LUMPUR: Taiwan’s women’s singles shuttler Tai Tzu-ying competed in the earliest match of the day in the Malaysian Open, and she was pleasantly surprised by the overwhelming support shown by the local fans.
The world No. 4 Tai Tzu-ying started her campaign on a positive note after producing a power-packed performance to beat world No. 9 Zhang Beiwen of United States 23-21, 21-19 in the first round at the Axiata Arena in Bukit Jalil yesterday.
Tzu-ying said her performance was mediocre, but she was amazed by the enthusiastic cheers and overwhelming support from the fans, especially considering the early timing of her match.
“Whenever I come, there are always many people supporting and cheering for me,” said the 29-year-old Tzu-ying.
“Even though I played early in the morning, I was shocked to hear loud cheers from the energetic home fans.
“My performance in today’s (yesterday’s) match was average.It hasn’t been long since my last competition (World Tour Finals), so my body is still recovering.”
With the victory, the two-time Malaysian Open champ has set up a meeting with Thai world No. 19 Busanan Ongbamrungphan in the second round today.
Busanan had to dig deep to defeat China’s world No. 33 Gao Fangjie 17-21, 22-20, 21-10 in another opening round match.
Tzu-ying said the women’s singles competition is becoming increasingly competitive and she aims to remain injury-free as she braces herself for a busy year.
“My performance in the second half of last year was not that great,” said Tzu-ying.
“I just want to stay in the best shape and maintain good health, primarily focusing on avoiding injuries.”
