Kiran George Stuns World No.13 Popov to Reach Hylo Open Quarterfinals

Summary – India’s Kiran George upsets world No.13 Toma Junior Popov in a thrilling 69-minute match to advance to the Hylo Open Super 500 quarterfinals.,

Article –

India’s Kiran George stunned world No.13 Toma Junior Popov of France to advance to the men’s singles quarterfinals at the USD 475,000 Hylo Open Super 500 badminton tournament held in Saarbrücken, Germany. This victory is a significant milestone for Kiran, ranked No.38 globally, as he displayed exceptional resilience and skill in a gripping 69-minute match.

Match Overview

The contest was intense and stretched over three games. Toma Junior Popov, the tournament’s eighth seed, won the opening game 21-18. However, Kiran bounced back strongly to claim the second game by the same scoreline. In a nail-biting final game, Kiran edged Popov 21-19, securing the match and a place in the quarterfinals.

Key Match Details

• Duration: 69 minutes
• Final Score: 18-21, 21-18, 21-19 in favor of Kiran George
• Tournament Prize: USD 475,000 (Hylo Open Super 500 level)
• Player Rankings: Kiran George (No.38), Toma Junior Popov (No.13, 8th seed)

Post-Match Reactions

Kiran George shared his thoughts: “I knew it would be tough against a player like Popov. I focused on my game plan and took it one point at a time. This win gives me confidence to push further in the tournament.”

Toma Junior Popov acknowledged Kiran’s strong performance, saying, “He played well today and earned the win. It was a close match, and I had chances, but he stayed strong in the key moments.”

The Indian coaching staff praised Kiran’s mental toughness and strategic gameplay. The head coach stated, “Kiran showed maturity and fought hard. Beating a top-15 player in a Super 500 event is a big achievement.”

Implications and What’s Next

Kiran George’s victory advances him to the quarterfinals, boosting his chances to earn valuable world ranking points and prize money, while also enhancing his international profile. The result eliminates Popov from the tournament, affecting his ranking points defense.

Next, Kiran will face Danish shuttler Victor Svendsen, ranked No.49, in the quarterfinals scheduled for Friday. The winner progresses to the semifinals with an opportunity to compete for the prestigious Super 500 title.

Fans and analysts will keenly observe Kiran’s forthcoming matches as he aims to build on this impressive run in the Hylo Open.

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Bhavya

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