Defeat China, Baek/Lee Defend Indonesia Open Title

South Korean women's doubles badminton player Lee So Hee (left) and Baek Ha Na (right) (ANTARA)

JAKARTA - South Korean women's doubles Baek Ha Na/Lee So Hee managed to defend the Indonesia Open title after defeating the first seed from China Chen Qing Chen/Jia Yi Fan in the final round, Sunday, June 9.

Baek/Lee won over Chen/Jia through two straight games 21-17, 21-13 in the match which was held at Istora Senayan Jakarta.

"Today was very tiring, especially for me. But, we are happy because finally the egg was broken beating Chen/Jia in today's match," Baek said at a press conference after the medal presentation, quoted by ANTARA.

Regarding the course of the match, Baek/Lee admitted that the key to their victory today was to appear patient and dare to attack.

"So far, we feel that our defense is good, but of course it is still lacking if we don't balance it with a lot of attacks," said Lee.

"Today's victory also adds to our confidence that we can combine defense and attacks well," he said.

In addition, the support from their fans who came directly to Istora Senayan is also an additional motivation for the 2024 All England Open champion.

"I see a lot of fans coming to give us support. That's our motivation to win, especially since we've also won here," Baek said.

Furthermore, for the world number two women's doubles pair, this second victory at the Indonesia Open will be their encouragement ahead of the 2024 Paris Olympics which will be held next month.

"This is our last tournament before the Olympics and this victory gives us more confidence for the upcoming Olympics," Lee said.

"After this we will return to South Korea and practice, then focus on the Olympics," he said.

Meanwhile, the Indonesia Open 2024 title in the mixed doubles sector was won by Jiang Zhen Bang/Wei Ya Xin (China) with a score of 21-11, 21-14 over its compatriot, Zheng Si Wei/Huang Ya Qiong.