SINGAPORE: Sony Dwi Kuncoro ended his two year title drought by winning the Li Ning Singapore Open men’s singles title at the Indoor stadium here today.
The 26-year-old Indonesian overcame an in-form Boonsak Ponsana of the Thailand, the 2007 champion, 21-16, 21-16 to clinch his first title since winning the China Masters in September 2008.
But it wasn’t easy for Sony who had to subdue his Thai opponent who has had a terrific week, coming into the final, especially having beaten Peter Gade of Denmark in the semi-final.
“Boonsak’s form in the tournament has really been good. His win over Peter Gade in the semis was ample proof that it would not be easy to beat him,” said Sony.
“I hope this win will give me the confidence. I really haven’t experienced such feelings for a long time. Maybe this would be a new beginning for me,” added Sony. — Bernama
In the women’s final, India’s Saina Nehwal lived up to her top billing with a 21-18, 21-15 win over Taiwan’s teenager Tai Tzu Ying to take the women singles crown.
“She is a talented player and she has a bright future ahead,” said Saina who has now won her second consecutive title following her triumph in the Indian Grand Prix Gold last week.
The men’s doubles title went to Taiwanese pair Fang Chieh Min/Lee Sheng Mu who beat former world champions Howard Bach/Tony Gunawan of USA, 21-14, 21-15 while Singapore enjoyed a rare moment of triumph with their victory in the women’s doubles through Yao Lei/Shinta Mulia who beat South Korean pair, Lee Hyo Jung/Kim Min Jung 21-17, 22-20 in the women’s doubles final. — Bernama