The weeks follow one another and are not always the same. Good for the Popov brothers. After the French Opendifficult in terms of results, they pulled out all the stops in All England on a Super 1000, the highest level in the world. A successful performance in Birmingham, in a room where an incredible atmosphere reigns when you are passionate about “bad”. A big success in the race for Olympic qualification.
During the 2nd match of the day, Toma Junior Popov achieved the sensation of this Tuesday by offering himself neither more nor less than the title holder and world No.4, the Chinese Li Shi Feng in two quick sets (21-17 , 21-13). “I am happy. As soon as my physical problems are limited, I am able to raise my level of play, to free myself. I’m happy that it’s starting with this tournament which is very important.“
The art and the manner, as if the good sensations left a few minutes earlier by his brother on the court bore fruit because yes, during the first match of the day, Christo dominated Lee Cheuk Yiu (Hong Kong) in three sets (22-20, 17-21, 21-16), being devilishly solid in a first that he almost saw fly away (18-13 then 18-19).
For his first match in England in singles, a tournament open only to the 32 best players in the world, the 2024 French champion managed his business perfectly. Serene despite the loss of the 2nd round, he remained focused to beat his Asian rival for the first time in his career after two losses in 2023.Mentally, it was very hard in all areas. I’m glad to be out of this match“, slipped Christo Popov.
Fratricidal shock in quarters?
Two important victories for the brothers in singles who, however, were unable to achieve the feat in doubles against world vice-champions Astrup and Rasmussen (15-15, then 16-21 in the first round, 13-21 in the second). However, they do not concede ground on the Labar-Corvée duo also beaten in the first round yesterday.
This Thursday, in singles, Toma Junior will challenge the Japanese Watanabe while Christo will face Su Li Yang (Taipei). Two players within their reach if the Popovs play at their best level. In the event of victories, it will be a fratricidal shock on the menu in the quarter-finals for Christo and Toma Junior…
2024-03-13 07:55:12
#Sports #Badminton #England #historic #day #Popov #brothers
