Saturday, 2 Nov 2024

News | BWF World Tour

How often do players making their Istora Senayan debut get to stay unbeaten, especially as qualifiers, until the semifinals of a major event? That’s been the remarkable journey of Danish mixed pair Jesper Toft and Clara Graversen at the DAIHATSU Indonesia Masters 2024 so far. Not only have they remained undefeated, but they have also done so in style, including a composed win in the quarterfinals today.

Toft and Graversen silenced the home crowd with a remarkable 37-minute victory over Rehan Naufal Kusharjanto/Lisa Ayu Kusumawati, winning 21-15 21-16. It’s worth noting that no European player has achieved this feat at the prestigious Istora Senayan venue since the HSBC BWF World Tour began in 2018.

An emotional Graversen expressed her overwhelming feelings, saying, “We didn’t expect to reach the semifinals. We came from qualifying, and our main goal was to make the main draw. Every match since then has been a bonus for us. We simply wanted to enjoy the entire experience of playing at the Istora. The atmosphere is incredible, and it’s been a true pleasure playing here.”

Toft and Graversen, ranked 44th in the world, have not put a foot wrong since coming through the qualifying rounds. They have defeated three higher-ranked pairs on their way to the last four. When asked about their strategy against the accomplished local duo, Toft mentioned their good serves and varied playing style. Their coach also encouraged them to be brave and enjoy the experience.

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The victory advances them to a clash against Hiroki Midorikawa/Natsu Saito. The Japanese pair secured their first win against the now third-seeded Jiang/Wei after four previous meetings. Midorikawa attributed their success to a change in tactics, focusing on a more aggressive approach, especially in the second game.

FAQs

Q: How did Jesper Toft and Clara Graversen qualify for the semifinals of the DAIHATSU Indonesia Masters 2024?
A: Toft and Graversen made it to the semifinals as qualifiers. They have defeated three higher-ranked pairs since the qualifying rounds.

Q: What is the significance of their achievement at Istora Senayan?
A: No European player has reached the semifinals at Istora Senayan since the HSBC BWF World Tour began in 2018. Toft and Graversen have broken this barrier with their exceptional performance.

Summary

Jesper Toft and Clara Graversen, a Danish mixed pair, have made an impressive run at the DAIHATSU Indonesia Masters 2024. As qualifiers, they have defied the odds and reached the semifinals, an achievement not seen by a European player at Istora Senayan since the HSBC BWF World Tour started in 2018. By winning their quarterfinal match with composure and style, they silenced the home crowd and advanced to face Hiroki Midorikawa and Natsu Saito. Toft and Graversen’s journey has been filled with victories over higher-ranked opponents, showcasing their talent and determination.