South Korea turned in a smashing performance to defeat China 3-0 and sensationally claim the Asian Games badminton women’s team gold medal today.
It is the second time since 1994 (in Hiroshima) that South Korea has won the women’s team gold in the Asian Games. China has won this event a record ten times.
An Se Young, the world No.1, handed Korea the lead after she brushed aside Chen Yufei 21-12, 21-13.
It was just the start they were looking for.
Chen Qingchen-Jia Yifan were out to make up for their compatriot’s loss but found themselves battling the fired-up Lee So Hee and Baek Hana.
Despite their best efforts, the Chinese duo fell in straight sets of 21-18, 21-14, giving Korea a critical 2-0 lead.
There was an immense amount of pressure on He Bingjiao and it showed as she stumbled in the first set against Kim Gaeun who won 23-21. He Bingjiao did everything she could but could not stop her forceful rival.
The men’s final between China and India will take place this evening.