by Ian Marshall, Editor

Top seed, Cho Seungmin proved too fast for Hong Kong’s Su Zhi, the no.27 seed (11-5, 11-9, 11-3) but it was in the counterpart Women’s Singles semi-finals where the difference was at its greatest. Choi Hyojoo in particular and perhaps to a slightly lesser extent, Kim Hayeong, accelerated to success.

Three matches to nil wins were the order of the day as Choi Hyojoo, the no.17 seed, accounted for Puerto Rico’s Adriana Diaz (11-5, 11-9, 11-3), whilst at the same time colleague, Kim Hayeong, the no.26 seed, ended the hopes of Spain’s Zhang Xuan, the no.18 seed (11-4, 11-8, 11-8).

Renowned for her rapid fire forehand, Choi Hyojoo showed no charity towards the Puerto Rican; there were no presents for the young lady who, on Wednesday 31st October, will celebrate her 18th birthday.

“I tried to change the tempo of the play, she had a good feeling for the ball, she was good when blocking; also whenever possible I tried to play my forehand as soon as possible but they key was making the changes.” Choi Hyojoo

Changes, Choi Hyojoo ripped through the gears; Kim Hayeong exercised her skills in a rather more controlled manner but had more than the edge when speed was the subject in question.

Meanwhile, in the one contest on view that did not involve a player from the Korea Republic, an all Japanese affair witnessed success for Koyo Kanamitsu. The no.7 seed, he accounted for colleague Yukiya Uda, the no.8 seed (11-6, 4-11, 11-5, 7-11, 11-6).

The finals will be staged later in the day during the evening session of play.