SEA Games 2023: Women's Tennis Team 'Open Fasting' Gold Medal, Men Stop In Semifinals

JAKARTA - The Indonesian women's tennis team won the gold medal at the 2023 SEA Games in Cambodia. The Red and White squad won after defeating Thailand in the final.

In the final which took place at the Tennis Arena Morodok Techo National Stadium, Phnom Penh, Tuesday, May 9, Indonesia won with a score of 2-1.

This result ended the golden fast since 2005 for the women's team. Unfortunately this result was not followed by the men's team which had to be stopped in the semifinals.

Indonesia actually started the match less sweetly. Aldila Sutjiadi, who fell in the first single, had to undergo a tough match in the first set against Aunchisa Chanta. Had the lead, the Indonesian women's singles mainstay had to give up 6-7 (6).

The tight competition in the first set turned out to continue, especially at the beginning of the match. It's just that Aldila continued to get pressure from the opponent so she had to give up with 3-6.

In the second match, the Indonesian tennis team deployed Priska Nugroho to face Lanlana Tararudee. In this match the Thai player followed the pattern of his team-mates in the first match. Continue to be pressured, Priska finally gave up 3-6.

Not wanting the SEA Games gold to pass, Priska immediately kicked off in the second set. This 19-year-old player played tactically to make opponents difficult and able to lead 6-3.

In the determination set, Priska immediately put pressure on the opponent which made the opponent tired. Even though the opponent tries to get up, Indonesia's mainstay continues to play calmly. Support from the audience can also spur enthusiasm and success 6-3.

In 1-1 position, double numbers must be played. This time Aldila Sutjiadi was paired with Jessy Rompies. Aura's victory was immediately seen when this pair played. This is proven by successfully winning 6-3 in the first set.

Able to excel, the Aldila-Jessy pair tried to look slick in the second set. However, the Thai pair did not remain silent. This condition made the match tight. However, the Indonesian team was able to win the second set with 7-5 and make the advantage 2-1.

"Getting gold feels very proud, especially since the women's team has not won gold for a long time. What is clear is that this victory is for Indonesia," said Jessy Rompies after the match.

Likewise with Aldila Sutjiadi. Even though he had to play twice in the hot weather, he continued to play tactically and succeeded in helping the women's tennis team win gold.

"I thank my friends from the women's team, men's team and companions who have continued to support us until now. Their support is very valuable for us. What is clear is that I am happy with this result," said Aldila.

After completing the team number, Indonesian tennis players will fight in singles to pursue the three gold targets set out in this biennial championship.