Hong Kong’s Angus Ng targets first trophy in over 2 years at Malaysian Masters, sets sights on return to world’s top 10
- Badminton star reaches first final in more than a year with three-set comeback win over H.S. Prannoy
- Ng credits influence of new coach Wong Tat Meng for his change in fortunes
Hong Kong’s Angus Ng Ka-long beat India’s H.S. Prannoy in a three-set comeback thriller on Saturday to book a spot in the Malaysia Masters badminton finals, his first shot at a trophy in more than a year.
The 28-year-old Hong Kong shuttler lost the first game to Prannoy 17-21. But by staying patient in long rallies and choosing the right moment to strike, he won the remaining two games 21-9, 21-17.
Ng is the only seeded player left in the men’s singles event following the exits of defending champion Kento Momota and Chou Tien-chen in earlier rounds.
As he did against Taiwan’s Chou in the quarter-finals, Ng had to battle back after conceding the first set against the 29-year-old Prannoy.
He won the second game fairly comfortably, but was trailing early in the third before finding the inspiration to rack up seven consecutive points for a 13-9 lead.
Ng’s workmanlike approach proved a tough barrier for Prannoy, who had to work overtime to find winners with his opponent exhibiting great court coverage and giving little away.
The Hongkonger, who is seeking his second Malaysia Masters title after winning in 2017, kept his lead intact to finally come away with the 64-minute victory, and afterwards said being patient was his secret weapon.