Yushi Tanaka defied the odds

The match begins with a tight score, as both players test each other in their first meeting. The early momentum seemed to favor TANAKA, who plays a more dynamic game and repeatedly targets his opponent’s forehand side. This strategy earns him a three-points lead going into the break (11/8). 

However, the world No. 4, LI Shi Feng, isn’t ready to give up. With powerful smashes and a more aggressive approach, he begins to chip away at TANAKA's lead. Point by point, he claws his way back and eventually takes the first set (21/19). 

Determined not to let history repeat itself, the Japanese player comes out strong in the second set. He quickly establishes his rhythm and builds a five-points lead by the mid-game interval. Yushi TANAKA continues to extend his advantage as the Chinese player appears to save his energy for the deciding game : 21/11 for TANAKA. 

The final game begins under intense pressure, with LI Shi Feng showing renewed aggression and taking an early lead. However, TANAKA's impressive defense and delicate net play helps him regain control, turning the tide by the mid-game interval (11/9). LI Shi Feng keeps searching for weaknesses, but TANAKA remains composed and ultimately sealed the match (21/15).