National squash players Ivan Yuen and Vanessa Raj had unexpectedly succumbed to defeat yesterday in the final qualifying round of the Hong Kong Open.
Yuen exhibited a skillful performance in the first set when he played against Declan James of England before he was ultimately outplayed 11-5, 5-11, 8-11, 11-3 and 6-11 within 40 minutes.
Compatriot Vanessa Raj bowed out after 24 minutes to Mexican veteran, Samantha Teran in three sets 8-11, 7-11 and 2-11.
In the first qualifying match, the both individuals made successful attempts in downing host players, Ma Tsz Hei and Cheng Nga Ching. Yuen won 11-8, 11-2 and 11-7 against Ma whereas Vanessa Raj won 11-5, 11-5 and 11-8 against Cheng.
Meanwhile, national squash queen Datuk Nicol David is aiming for her 10th Hong Kong Open title and she will be facing Hong Kong’s Liu Tsz Ling in the opening round this Wednesday. The world number two has been clinching the title for the last nine years.
Low Wee Wern, who just made her comeback on the international scene after a hiatus that was due to her knee injury, will be opening her campaign today, alongside Malaysia’s top male player, Nafiizwan Adnan as well as Delia Arnold.
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