KUCHING: Malaysia’s Eogene Ewe claimed the biggest win of his Macau Open campaign after upsetting Singapore’s world No. 31 Jason Teh Jia Heng 21-9, 21-19 in straight-sets to reach the men’s singles semi-finals tonight (June 19).
The world No. 80 needed three games to overcome the higher-ranked Singaporean, adding another notable scalp to his growing list of achievements this season.
Eogene looked in complete control from the outset, overwhelming Teh with his attacking play and relentless pace to storm through the opening game 21-9.
The Malaysian gave his opponent little room for error, dictating the rallies and repeatedly forcing the Singaporean onto the defensive as he seized early control of the contest.
However, the momentum shifted in the second game.
A series of unforced errors disrupted Eogene’s rhythm, allowing the experienced Jia Heng to work his way back into the match. The Singaporean capitalised on the opportunities presented to level the contest and force a deciding game.
With a place in the semi-finals at stake, the third game evolved into a battle of composure and mental strength.
Neither player was willing to give an inch as the scores remained tight throughout, but Eogene showed maturity beyond his years in the closing stages, holding his nerve to edge the decider 21-19 and complete a decisive victory.
The result follows his dominant 21-1, 21-15 win over compatriot Cheam June Wei in the Round of 16 and marks another significant scalp for the Malaysian youngster in Macau.
Elsewhere, women’s doubles pair Carmen Ting and Ong Xin Yee continued their impressive run after defeating South Korea’s Kim Hye Jeong and Moon In Seo 21-14, 21-16 to advance to the semi-finals. The Malaysians needed just 47 minutes to overcome the Korean pairing led by world No. 6 player Hye Jeong.
Mixed doubles duo Hoo Pang Ron and Lai Pei Jing also progressed to the last four, defeating China’s Zhu Yi Jun and Li Qian 21-16, 21-15 to keep Malaysian hopes alive in Macau.
In the men’s doubles department, Low Hang Yee and Ng Eng Cheong also secured a place in the semi-finals after fighting back to defeat against national seniors Azriyn Ayub and Tan Wee Kiong 14-21, 21-11, 24-22
