Saina Nehwal reaches Denmark Open semi-finals

20 October, 2012

After defeating Tine Baun in the Denmark Open Super series, Saina Nehwal has reached the semi-finals of the competition, where she will meet Yihan Wang of China, the London Olympics Silver medallist.

THE ONGOING Denmark Super series is Saina Nehwal's first major championship after she won the bronze medal in the 2012 London Olympics. She has looked very impressive in the tournament as she has managed to reach the semi finals of the competition after defeating Tine Baun in the quarterfinals last night in Odenese, reported The Hindu with the score reading 21-10, 21- 11.

The match was dominated by the Indian with her vicious play both from the back court as well as her net play. It was a treat for the fans gathered in the stadium. May be, one also has to bring in the age factor, as Saina was quick on his feet compared to her older counter part. Saina is 11 years younger than the home favourite, Baun. Saina has always had the better of the Danish girl, and enjoys an impressive record of four straight wins over the player.

But the real test for India's number one shuttler lies when she she plays her semi-final match against world number one, Yihan Wang of China. The match is not going to be an easy one for the Hyderabadi girl, as Wang defeated the Indian shuttler in the London Olympics semi-final as well. It could be a perfect revenge for the Indian, who has been seeded third in the competition. For the past few years, it is the Chinese shuttlers who has been a major obstacle for Saina in winning major championships.

Denmark Open has never seen the best of Saina Nehwal. The best she has finished in the competition was a second round exit last year, but she has corrected that by reaching the last four this year. Her road does not end here, as she looks determined to clinch her first Denmark Open, for which she needs to win two more matches.

Saina's performance so far needs to be praised as she could not prepare for the championship, the way she wanted to, due to lack of time. She was busy attending functions and ceremonies after her amazing performance in the London Olympics.