Wednesday, 9 Oct 2024

Benyapa and Nuntakarn Aimsaard Shine at the Hong Kong Open 2023 Quarterfinals

The windy conditions at the Hong Kong Coliseum posed no challenge for Benyapa and Nuntakarn Aimsaard, who displayed remarkable composure in their recent match. The Thai sisters secured a thrilling victory against top seeds Mayu Matsumoto and Wakana Nagahara from the VICTOR Hong Kong Open 2023 quarterfinals.

An Impressive Performance

In a gripping three-game match, the Aimsaard sisters fought back from being two match points down in the second game to emerge victorious. Once they took the lead in the decider at 3-2, they never looked back, ensuring their first win in four encounters against the Japanese world No.7s.

Benyapa and Nuntakarn celebrating a point during the match.

The Secret to Success

When asked about their strategy, Benyapa, the younger sister, attributed their triumph to shuttle control. Despite the fast hall conditions, they maintained excellent control of the shuttle, frustrating their opponents and gaining an advantage. The absence of expectations for this match also played a pivotal role, relieving them of pressure and allowing them to focus on one point at a time.

Nuntakarn, the older sister, emphasized their solid defense and swift transitions from defense to attack. Their ability to defend well, particularly from the back court, enabled them to set up critical front-court winners.

A Remarkable Comeback

The Aimsaard sisters, currently ranked No. 11 in the world, have been on a comeback journey since Benyapa’s knee injury earlier this year. After winning the Thailand Masters title in February, they faced early exits in all three HSBC BWF World Tour events between February and May due to Benyapa’s knee injury. However, their improved form coincided with Benyapa’s healing knee, making it to the quarterfinals at the Canada and Australian Opens.

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Focused on the Next Challenge

While the Aimsaard sisters are thrilled to have defeated the top seeds, their sights are set on the next match. They are determined to push themselves further and improve their performance against Tan Pearly and Thinaah Muralitharan in the upcoming semifinal. Pearly and Thinaah are known for their attacking style and powerful smashes. To overcome this challenge, the Aimsaard sisters aim to elevate their defensive skills, surpassing their efforts from the previous match, and become the more offensive pair.

The only previous encounter between the two pairs took place in 2021 during the Thailand Open first round, resulting in a victory for Tan and Muralitharan.

FAQs

Q: How did Benyapa and Nuntakarn Aimsaard perform in the Hong Kong Open 2023 quarterfinals?

A: Benyapa and Nuntakarn Aimsaard showcased impressive composure and secured a thrilling victory against top seeds Mayu Matsumoto and Wakana Nagahara.

Q: What was the key to their success in the match?

A: Shuttle control played a crucial role in their win. They maintained excellent control of the shuttle, frustrating their opponents and gaining an advantage.

Q: How did the Aimsaard sisters perform after Benyapa’s knee injury?

A: After Benyapa’s knee injury earlier this year, the sisters faced early exits in three HSBC BWF World Tour events. However, their form improved as Benyapa’s knee healed, reaching the quarterfinals at the Canada and Australian Opens.

Q: What is their focus for the upcoming match?

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A: The Aimsaard sisters are determined to elevate their skills and performance against Tan Pearly and Thinaah Muralitharan. They aim to improve their defensive abilities and become the more offensive pair.

Conclusion

Benyapa and Nuntakarn Aimsaard’s remarkable performance at the Hong Kong Open 2023 quarterfinals showcased their composure, skill, and determination. Despite facing a challenging match, they displayed exceptional shuttle control and solid defense. Their victory against the top seeds set the stage for a thrilling semifinal encounter. With their eyes firmly set on the future, the Aimsaard sisters are determined to continue their impressive run in the tournament.