China powers past Japan to claim 10th Sudirman Cup
(Xinhua) Updated: 2015-05-17 19:13
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China's Lin Dan reacts during the final against Takuma Ueda of Japan at 2015 Sudirman Cup BWF World Mixed Team Championships in Dongguan, May 17, 2015.[Photo/Xinhua] |
"It's a tough battle. This point is usually the most difficult but we hang on and won it. It's a big boost for us," said Fu Haifeng, who won the 2012 Olympic gold with partner Cai Yun.
Zhang Nan, who had to play in the fifth mixed doubles if China couldn't win 3-0, said he felt honored to be selected for two disciplines.
"My physical condition is good. The first victory is able to make me more relaxed and confident to play the fifth game if necessary," said Zhang Nan.
Li Xuerui, the women's singles champion in the London Olympics, used 42 minutes to beat Akane Yamaguchi 23-21, 21-14, put China 2-0 ahead.
"The first set is very close. In the second, when I played in my rhythm she began to make mistakes," said the world No. 1 Li.
Then it was Lin Dan's turn.
"Super Dan", who has twice completed a "grand slam" of major badminton titles, proved too strong for 25th-ranked Takuma Ueda, winning 21-15, 21-13.
