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Malvika Bansod, a 22-year-old Indian shuttler, defeated Paris Olympics bronze medallist Gregoria Mariska Tunjung in the women’s singles opening round of the China Open.
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Bansod, ranked 43rd in the world, saved a game point thrice in the opening game to win 26-24, 21-19 in a 46-minute match.
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This is Bansod’s biggest win, and she will next face Scotland’s Kristy Gilmour in the next round.
Malvika Bansod, a young Indian shuttler, created a stir in the badminton world by defeating Paris Olympics bronze medallist Gregoria Mariska Tunjung in the women’s singles opening round of the China Open. Bansod, ranked 43rd in the world, displayed immense grit and determination to win the match 26-24, 21-19 in 46 minutes.
Bansod’s victory is her biggest career win, and she will next face Scotland’s Kristy Gilmour in the next round. Despite early exits in previous tournaments, Bansod has maintained her position in the world’s top 50 and has played close matches against top-ranked players like Akane Yamaguchi and Nozomi Okuhara.
Bansod’s progress was hampered by health issues last year, but she has consistently pushed her game forward, training under coach Shrikant Vad at the Thane Badminton Academy. Her mother Trupti expressed joy and pride in her daughter’s victory, stating that it is her biggest win and a significant milestone in her career. Bansod’s win is a testament to her hard work and dedication, and fans are eagerly waiting to see her performance in the next round.
