
Jakarta: The World No. 32 Jun Hao surprised big names such as Japan’s World No. 20 Koki Watanabe in the Thomas Cup, and his performance has remained consistent since then.
On Wednesday, he showcased his capabilities once again by defeating the 2024 All England and Asian champion, Jonatan Christie, in the first round of the Indonesia Open at Istora Senayan.
Highlights of Leong Jun Hao vs. Jonatan Christie in the first round of the 2024 Indonesia Open:
Jonatan is the second top Indonesian player to fall to Leong after he beat World No. 9 Anthony Sinisuka Ginting 21-14, 10-21, 21-8 in the Singapore Open second round last week.
“Since the Thomas Cup, I feel I have managed to maintain my consistency and my confidence level is also better,” Leong told the Badminton World Federation (BWF) after defeating Jonatan 21-13, 16-21, 21-12 in one hour and 2 minutes at Istora Senayan. It was the first battle between these two players, and Leong remained humble after the win.
“I cannot be too comfortable with this win because those I have defeated are preparing for the Olympics, and every player has their ups and downs. I also managed to do my best,” said Leong.
Leong is scheduled to meet Taiwan’s Chou Tien Chen in the second round on Thursday.
In women’s doubles, Malaysia’s Vivian Hoo/Lim Chiew Sien lost in straight sets to the Hong Kong pair Yeung Nga Ting/Yeung Pui Lam 17-21, 18-21 in 44 minutes.
In the mixed doubles event, Yap Roy King/Valeree Siow also had to bow out of the Indonesia Open after losing 21-19, 13-21, 18-21 to China’s Jiang Zhen Bang/Wei Ya Xin.