Toma Junior missed a ball in the second set against Kean Yew Loh, in the round of 16 of the Yonex French Open badminton. Laurent Lairys / Panoramic
The French Toma Junior Popov (25th in the world) showed a good face in the first round of the French Open badminton, but lost against the Singaporean Kean Yew Loh (12th in the world) 21-14, 23-21.
Opposed from the start to the 12th player in the world, the Frenchman Toma Junior Popov – said Tom – lost in two sets against Kean Yew Loh. However, he showed a good face and kept in mind his main objective for the year: to qualify for the Olympic Games, which will take place here, at the adidas arena in Paris.
The game : «I almost took it. I think it happened within a few millimeters (he was referring to a second-inning ball he narrowly missed). It was quite a good recovery match. Good things before next week.»
L’Adidas arena : “It’s big (laughs) Seeing the gymnasium definitely gives a big “wow” because the room is gigantic. Afterwards we are used to it because in Asia, the rooms are even bigger. But now, as it is brand new, it really has an effect. I want to go back there.”
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Olympic Games : «We see ourselves there, we project ourselves there, even if for the moment, it’s my brother (Christo, who will play on Wednesday Editor’s note) who is qualified. As with all athletes, qualifying for the Games is a big step. But I will do everything to surpass him and be qualified. But we’ll both do what we can. We’re both going to push each other.»
Conditions : «There was a change in atmosphere, a change of direction too. Especially in terms of wind and the environment. There was a little atmosphere, as often. I think they (conditions) would be perfect if there was no wind. With air conditioning, the steering wheel moves a little (in the air). In Asia, we are used to these playing conditions, but not in France. Is it a problem ? Yes.»
Read alsoBadminton: crowned in Germany, Christo Popov shines before the French Open
Double : «Now I’m going to plan on the doubles, especially take care of my back and recover. It’s a big goal, we both want to qualify.»
