Ratchanok, Momota win Indian Open titles

Ratchanok Intanon of Thailand pulled off an upset win over China’s reigning Olympic champion Li Xuerui to clinch the Indian Open super series title in New Delhi yesterday. Thailand’s Ratchanok Intanon poses with the winners trophy after victory in the women’s final against China’s Li Xuerui at India Open in New Delhi yesterday. (AFP)The world number five Ratchanok, 21, held her nerve in the women’s singles final at the Siri Fort stadium, thrashing the world number two 21-17, 21-18 in straight games. In the men’s singles final, second-seeded Kento Momota of Japan pocketed the title with a 21-15, 21-18 win over Denmark’s rising star Viktor Axelsen. Li, seeded third, tried to put up a fight but could do little to stop the Thai sensation who unleashed cracking shots on her way to a memorable win, having lost in the final last year at the same venue. “Li has good skills, she is a very attacking player,” an elated Ratchanok said after the match. “I had to prepare well for this match. My idea was not to make mistakes. My concentration was good.  “I kept telling myself that it is one more point and I should not commit errors.” The Indian challenge had ended Saturday with the shock ouster of defending champion Saina Nehwal at the hands of Li in a thrilling semi-final. Men’s winner Momoto said the victory would put him in good stead ahead of the Rio Olympics in August. “My experience in other super series finals helped me,” said the Japanese player, who took his head-to-head record to 6-1 against the Danish shuttler. “I was able to execute my plans well today. This win will put me in the good frame of mind for the Olympics.” It was Momoto’s fourth super series title after having won in Malaysia, Indonesia and Singapore last year.