In a remarkable display of skill and strategy, female shuttlers Sung Suo-yun and Yu Chien-hu on Sunday triumphantly captured their first doubles title of the year at the prestigious Hylo Open held in Germany.
Entering the highly competitive Super 300-level tournament as the top seeds, the Taiwanese duo demonstrated their prowess by defeating the formidable Ukrainian pair of Polina Buhrova and Yevheniia Kantemyr with a commanding score of 21-16, 21-14 in a swift 36-minute match.
Sung and Yu faced little resistance in the match, displaying remarkable synergy as they maintained a steady lead throughout the first game. They showcased their resilience by taking control of the second game with a spectacular 11-4 run after initially trailing at 3-4.
“Winning this championship has really boosted our confidence,” Sung said. “I hope we can keep playing well and continue to improve.”
Following a bye in the round-of-32, the Taiwanese duo secured a thrilling comeback victory over England’s Chloe Birch and Estelle Van Leeuwen, bouncing back triumphantly after dropping the first game 19-21 to clinch the next two games decisively with scores of 21-8 and 21-19.
Before their success at the Hylo Open, Sung and Yu had struggled throughout the year, facing early eliminations before the quarter-finals in all but two of the 14 doubles events they had participated in.
Pleased to finally secure her first Super-series title, Yu noted that the toughest challenge came in the semi-final match on Saturday, where they outlasted a tough Danish pair in a grueling three-game battle that lasted nearly an hour.
Meanwhile, Sung expressed satisfaction with their stellar performance in the final match, emphasizing the significant boost to their morale and confidence from this victory.
Photo grab from Taipower. badminton FB
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**Interview with Sung Suo-yun and Yu Chien-hu: Mindfulness and Strategy in Badminton**
**Editor:** Welcome, Sung Suo-yun and Yu Chien-hu! Congratulations on your recent victory! It’s a thrill to have you with us. Your match showcased incredible skill and strategy. Can you tell us how mindfulness played a role in your performance?
**Sung Suo-yun:** Thank you! Mindfulness has become an integral part of our training. When I’m on the court, staying present helps me focus on my shots and adjust my tactics without getting distracted by past mistakes or future points.
**Yu Chien-hu:** I agree! For me, mindfulness during matches allows me to manage my nerves. In high-pressure situations, it’s easy to lose track of the game. Practicing techniques like deep breathing can calm my mind and sharpen my concentration.
**Editor:** That’s fascinating! Many athletes emphasize the importance of mental strength. How do you incorporate meditation in your routine?
**Sung Suo-yun:** We often start our training sessions with a short meditation. It helps to set a positive tone and improves our focus. After a rigorous physical workout, we also take a moment to reflect and connect with our breath.
**Yu Chien-hu:** Exactly! We focus on maintaining a clear mindset, which allows us to adjust strategies mid-game. It’s not just about physical training anymore; mental preparation is key!
**Editor:** You both have clearly embraced the power of mindfulness. What advice do you have for young athletes looking to build their mental resilience?
**Sung Suo-yun:** I’d say start small. Even a few minutes of deep breathing or meditation each day can help you become more aware of your thoughts and feelings.
**Yu Chien-hu:** Yes, and don’t be afraid to experiment with different practices. Find what helps you the most. Mental strength can be just as vital as physical training in badminton!
**Editor:** Thank you both for sharing your insights! Your dedication to both the physical and mental aspects of the game is truly inspiring. Best of luck in your future matches!
**Sung Suo-yun and Yu Chien-hu:** Thank you! We’re excited for what’s ahead!
