Advertisement

Li Xuerui beats Wang Shixian in final to win World Super Series title

The Olympic champion is set to become world No 1 after winning the Super Series singles event

Reading Time:2 minutes
Why you can trust SCMP
Chen Long prepares to make a shot on his way to victory over Du Pengyu in the men's singles final in Shenzhen. Photo: Xinhua

China's Li Xuerui underlined her status as the world's top player by thrashing compatriot Wang Shixian 21-9, 15-4 in the women' singles final of the World Super Series yesterday.

Advertisement

On a day when China took three out of the five titles on offer at Shenzhen Bay Sports Centre, Li was in a class of her own, overwhelming her opponent before Wang was forced to retire in the second game with a back injury.

The 21-year-old London Olympic champion is set to take over the world No 1 spot of another compatriot, Wang Yihan, when the new ranking list is announced this week.

Wang Yihan, who has occupied the top spot since November last year, missed the US$500,000 year-ending spectacle because of injury.

Li believes she still has a way to go before matching the success of other senior members of the mighty mainland squad.

Advertisement

"Perhaps I am more consistent than others and that's why I always get the limelight," said the Chongqing native. "It has been a tough year for many of us, from the London Olympic Games to this Super Series final. I am happy I could keep my composure to the end and clinch the title.

Advertisement