Ohukara Wins First International Title in Women’s Final

Ohukara Wins First International Title in One Sided Women’s Final

The Women’s Singles final at the SKYCITY NZ Badminton Open was a one sided affair with Nozomi Okuhara (Japan) completely outclassing her countrywoman Kana Ito 21-15, 21-3

Ito never found a rhythm, constantly catching the frame of the racket and looking a little overawed by the occasion, allowing Okuhara an easy march to her first international title.

“I am very happy to win today, I did not think it would be so easy but I am very happy,” said Okuhara of a match that lasted just 32 minutes.

“I have been returning from my knee injury so to win so well as I have done today is very good. This is my first title too and that is also very pleasing. I have enjoyed my time here in New Zealand and am honoured to win my first title here in New Zealand.”

The first game was relatively even with Ito leading 8-7, but that would be the last lead she would enjoy in the match with Okuhara going on a 9-1 scoring run to take the opening game away from her opponent. The second was simply one-sided as Ohukara went out to a 10-0 lead, almost before the fans had retaken their seats.

Kana Ito was disappointed not to put up a better show, not only for herself but for the fans that came out to watch.

“My goal this week was first to reach the final and I am pleased that I achieved that. However I regret that I did not play my best badminton today, I very much wanted to win, but Nozomi was too good for me today. This is the second time we have played each other in 3 years.

“Finally I would like to thank the fans including the local Auckland people who supported me today.”

Barfoot & Thompson finals day continues with the Men’s Singles final, the Mixed Doubles final and Men’s and Women’s Doubles finals at the North Shore Events Centre.

SKYCITY NZ Badminton Open
Women’s Singles Final
Nozomi Okuhara (JPN) def Kana Ito (JPN) 21-15, 21-3
umpire: Kalle Saarinen Finland
duration: 32 minutes

ENDS

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