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Decade-long wait pays off for Febby Angguni
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Febby Angguni (badmintonindonesia.org)
I
span style="letter-spacing: 0.1px; line-height: 20.8px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);">Indonesia’s badminton aficionados burst into applause at the unexpected victory of home women’s singles player Febby Angguni who defeated Yip Pui Yin of Hong Kong in a rubber 18-21, 21-16, 21-19 match.
After suffering defeat at every qualification stage of the Indonesian Open championships since 2006, Febby was overjoyed to win the match.
“Since 2006, I have never made it past the qualification stage. So, I’m very happy now,” Febby told reporters in post-match press conference.
The 24 year-old player gave a gripping performance for the home crowd, especially in the decisive third game when Febby’s score was left 2-12. However, the spectators’ continual support recharged Febby’s morale.
“My confidence was sapped at one point as the score gap widened. However, because of the spectators’ support combined with my self-motivation I could reverse the situation,” Febby said with a wide smile.
A thrilling moment occurred when the shuttlecock broke after being hit by Febby when Pui Yin took a 18-16 lead.
The shuttlecock was broken in pieces, one of which fell on Pui Yin’s side and some fell outside the court. Pui Yin believed that the point belonged to her, while the umpire decided otherwise.
After discussing the incident, the official decided to cancel the shot.
Pui Yin appeared to lose her composure after the incident, which helped Febby to victory.
Febby also said that so far she has only focused on the qualification, and had not given any thought to any specific tactic she will use when she faces fierce opponent Sun Yu of China in the second round.
The unseeded Chinese shuttler stunned the world’s No. 2 and Indonesia Open defending champion Ratchanok Intanon of Thailand in an easy 15-21, 18-21 win. (dmr)
