Kento Momota vs Shi Yu Qi: Shall We Witness the Return of the King?

Prepare for a thrilling badminton match as Kento Momota, once the undisputed ruler of the courts from 2018 to 2020, faces off against the talented Shi Yu Qi. This match is more than just a game; it’s a moment that might mark the return of a badminton legend.

Kento Momota photo by WBF

Momota’s Challenging Journey

A Sudden Hurdle

Momota’s path took an unexpected turn after winning the Malaysia Open in 2020. A severe car accident led to significant injuries, impacting his performance and raising questions about his future in the sport.

The Battle to Reclaim Form

His journey back was filled with struggles. Momota’s early exit from the Tokyo 2020 Olympics disappointed fans, and his performances in later tournaments didn’t meet his previous standards.

The Road to Redemption

From Qualifications to Contender

With unwavering dedication and support from his coaches, Momota started rebuilding his strength and confidence. Momota’s participation from the qualification rounds at the Kumamoto Masters Japan 2023 highlighted how far he had to climb to get back to his best.

In round 32, Momota faced LOH Kean Yew, a former world champion known for his speed, and won in a tense match: 18–21, 26–24, 21–19. Then, against Rasmus Gemke, Momota overcame a 6-point deficit at 14–8 to win 21-17 in a decisive game. It was a fight with ups and downs for both players, where we’ve seen Momota’s spirit!

The Anticipated Showdown

The upcoming match against Shi Yu Qi isn’t just another game for Momota. It’s a pivotal point in his journey back to the top.

This match is a testament to his spirit and resilience, showcasing not just his skill but also his determination to return to form. As Momota steps onto the court, the question on everyone’s mind is whether this will mark his full comeback.

For fans, this match is a not-to-be-missed event, a chance to possibly witness the return of a badminton king!

Watch the match on November 17th here: https://www.youtube.com/@bwftv/streams

By Max Sydorenko, for This Is Badminton Blog