Nozomi Okuhara Beats Wang Shixian to Win Her First All England Badminton Title
Nozomi Okuhara became the first Japanese singles winner at the All England Badminton Championships in 39 years.
Nozomi Okuhara of Japan marked her 21st birthday with her first All England badminton championships title after beating two-time champion Wang Shixian of China 21-11, 16-21, 21-19 in a thrilling final on Sunday. (Lin Dan Wins His Sixth All England Title)
"It's my best birthday ever," Okuhara said.
She was behind for most of the decisive game and looked tired, but found the energy to come from 17-14 down to 19-17 ahead, watch Wang tie at 19, move ahead with her first match point, and win it when Wang netted a forehand.
Okuhara collapsed at the net in joy, the first Japanese singles winner in 39 years.
Meanwhile, Lin Dan earned his sixth All England badminton title when he routed Chinese teammate Tian Houwei 21-9, 21-10 in the men's singles final.