China Open: Toma Junior Popov Outshines Leong in Thriller

Jayce September 21, 2024 0

Toma Junior Popov triumphed in a thrilling match against Leong Jun Hao, advancing to the second round of the VICTOR China Open 2024.

After taking a break post-Olympics, the French player returned to action last week at the LI-NING Hong Kong Open 2024 and managed to secure victory in a grueling 95-minute encounter, saving five match points in the second game to win 23-25, 26-24, 21-19.

“It was an incredible battle—mental, physical, and technical, especially at the net,” said Popov.

He praised Leong for his remarkable net play, calling his shots “unplayable.”

“At the net, he was exceptional. He defended brilliantly with surprising shots. In the first game, I had three game points but also saved three match points at 20-17,” Popov recounted.

“At 20-18, I tried to push my advantage, but the shuttle hit the frame and landed in the net, and I thought, why me, why today?”

Popov shared advice from his father, who warned him against playing to Leong’s forehand net, noting how difficult it was to avoid it. “The key was to keep him away from the net,” he emphasized.

Looking to regain his momentum after his break, Popov reflected, “After the Olympics, I took a few weeks off, trained for a week, and then played in Hong Kong. I had a great match against Anthony Ginting, which made me happy, especially since I hadn’t trained much. I’m gradually warming up and rebuilding my confidence and experience.”