Source: REUTERS/IVAN ALVARADO
[Saba Sports News] Yamaguchi Akane,
Japan’s top female badminton player, sustained a right foot injury during the
quarterfinals of the Hangzhou Asian Games in September this year. She was
visibly emotional on the court and had to withdraw from the game, seeking
treatment in China. Subsequently, she was diagnosed with a “long peroneal
tendon injury,” forcing her to withdraw from international competitions
like the BWF World Tour Finals. After more than two months of treatment, Akane
Yamaguchi rejoined the team in late November and resumed training. Recently,
she announced her comeback plan and confirmed her participation in the
Malaysian Open in January 2024, where she will defend her champion title.
Yamaguchi is currently one of the world’s top women’s badminton singles
players. She has won two consecutive World Championships in women’s singles and
has held the top world ranking for an extended period. Fans have nicknamed her
“Little Motor” due to her relentless running on the court. Her
playing style poses a challenge for Chinese women’s singles players, who often
struggle against her. With Yamaguchi’s return, the international badminton
scene will once again witness the three-way rivalry between China, Japan, and
South Korea.