Badminton
Korea Masters: Kiran George stuns Chi Yu Jen to reach quarterfinals
Kiran George battled to a 2-1 victory (21-19, 17-21, 21-17) over Chi Yu Jen, advancing to the quarterfinals at the Korea Masters 2024.
Kiran George, the only Indian competing in the Korea Masters 2024, stunned World No. 31 Chi Yu Jen from Taipei in a gripping Round of 16 match on Thursday.
George, ranked lower than his opponent, displayed remarkable determination and skill, sealing the win with scores of 21-19, 17-21, 21-17 in a 75-minute showdown.
Despite a late comeback from Yu Jen in the second half of the second game and the initial loss of the lead in the decider, Kiran George overcame the third seed Chi Yu Jen.
His tenacity has earned him a place in the quarterfinals of the men’s singles event, marking a significant achievement in his career.
Earlier in the tournament, George made an impressive comeback against Vietnam's Nguyen Hai Dang in the first round, bouncing back from a tough opening set to win 15-21, 21-12, 21-15 in a 57-minute battle.
This victory set the stage for his showdown against Chi Yu Jen, where he once again demonstrated his fighting spirit.
The 24-year-old shuttler remains India’s lone representative in Iksan City, South Korea, after fellow Indian players Ayush Shetty and Imad Farooqui Samiya withdrew.
Despite recent challenges, George is determined to make history by aiming for India's first title at the Korea Masters, building on his previous success as a quarter-finalist in international tournaments.