WORLDS 2010 – Thai Tanongsak Tames Tago

Tanongsak Saensomboonsuk of Thailand continued to surprise in Paris at the 2010 Yonex BWF World Championships as he ousted Tago Kenichi to set up a rematch with Taufik Hidayat, whom he has beaten before.

By Tarek Hafi (live from Paris).  Photos: Badmintonphoto (live)

He shook the whole badminton world in march this year by reaching the final of the prestigious All England Super Series, for its 100^th edition.  However, in Paris, Tago Kenichi of Japan was shown the way out in only the second round. He was as nonchalant as his role model Taufik but couldn’t be as efficient, facing a very aggressive game from the Thai Tanongsak Saensomboonsuk, for whom this is by far his most impressive result of the year.

Coach Keita Masuda couldn’t hide his disappointment towards his protégé, revealing with tears in his eyes “If he could have been quicker, he would have won.”

The Thai indeed provided a very fast game and lethal attacks, most of the time long the line, something, even with his superb net play couldn’t be repaired.

“I’ve had some troubles with my health recently, but this cannot be used as an excuse.  He played really well and just put too much pressure on me with his smashes,” admitted a saddened Kenichi Tago, who now will concentrate on the Asian Games in late November.

The Thai player will now get to play Taufik Hidayat in the third round, with one win each, the Thai having won the first of these, in the 2008 Thomas Cup.

To get the latest results, CLICK HERE

For on-the-scene video reporting from the World Championships, take a look at the Badzine TV magazine, HERE