Saturday, 23 Nov 2024

Indonesian Shuttler Syakuroh Qonitah Ikhtiar Makes History at Spanish Para Badminton International

Ikhtiar is through to the final at her maiden Category 2 event.

Indonesian para-badminton athlete Syakuroh Qonitah Ikhtiar has written her name in the history books of the Spanish Para Badminton International. In her Category 2 event debut, she defeated the second seed Mandeep Kaur to secure a spot in the final.

Ikhtiar, brimming with confidence, mentioned that she was able to outpace her higher-ranked opponent on the court. “It’s my time to shine,” she said. The 22-year-old para-athlete has consistently trained hard, focusing on improving her footwork and movement since being classified on the Para circuit in 2022.

Reflecting on her performance, Ikhtiar stated, “The first game was easy as my opponent made a lot of mistakes, but I had to step up my game in the second. I’m pleased to compete against other para-athletes at this level.”

Ikhtiar’s journey in badminton has seen her excel in multiple competitions. She reached the finals in three events at the Indonesian Para Badminton International 2022, clinching gold in women’s singles and SL3-SU5 women’s doubles.

“I have been playing badminton for 13 years, but thanks to a new club, I was able to join a professional league, and it has been a fantastic experience. I am surrounded by talented people and coaches. My favorite player is Apriyani Rahayu; she is truly amazing,” Ikhtiar shared.

In the final, Ikhtiar will face reigning world champion Oksana Kozyna, whom she defeated comfortably in the group stage.

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Other Indonesian athletes have also made their mark at the Spanish Para Badminton International. Rina Marlina (SH6), Leani Ratri Oktila (SL4), and Dheva Anrimusthi (SU5) have all advanced to the finals. Anrimusthi delivered an impressive performance, defeating the second seed Fang Jen-yu in just 35 minutes with a score of 21-15 21-14.

Another notable success story is Maud Lefort (SU5), who fought her way to the final after a thrilling match against the second seed Akikio Sugino. Despite losing the opening game, Lefort made tactical adjustments and secured a victory with scores of 13-21 21-16 21-16.

Reflecting on her performance, Lefort admitted, “I made a lot of mistakes. The shuttlecocks were incredibly fast. I needed time to adjust and change my game plan to place the shuttle in the right spots. I didn’t expect to make it to the final with my ranking, but here I am.” The 16-year-old player will face the formidable Manisha Ramdass in the final.

FAQs

Q: Who is Syakuroh Qonitah Ikhtiar?
A: Syakuroh Qonitah Ikhtiar is an Indonesian para-badminton athlete who has made a name for herself in the sport. She recently secured a spot in the final at the Spanish Para Badminton International.

Q: Who will Ikhtiar face in the final?
A: Syakuroh Qonitah Ikhtiar will face Oksana Kozyna, the reigning world champion, in the final.

Q: Which other Indonesian athletes have advanced to the finals?
A: Rina Marlina (SH6), Leani Ratri Oktila (SL4), and Dheva Anrimusthi (SU5) have all advanced to the finals at the Spanish Para Badminton International.

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Conclusion

The Spanish Para Badminton International has witnessed remarkable performances from Indonesian para-badminton athletes. Syakuroh Qonitah Ikhtiar’s journey to the final has been nothing short of inspiring, and she will face tough competition from the reigning world champion, Oksana Kozyna. In addition, Rina Marlina, Leani Ratri Oktila, and Dheva Anrimusthi have all displayed exceptional skills and determination in reaching the finals. Maud Lefort’s comeback victory after losing the opening game showcases the resilience and fighting spirit of these talented athletes. The finals promise to be captivating, and fans eagerly await the results.

For more updates on para-badminton and other exciting sports events, visit Carnegiecentre.