BANGKOK: Japan clinched the Uber Cup for the first time since 1981 when they defeated hosts Thailand 3-0 at the IMPACT Stadium on Saturday. This was part of the preparations for this Uber Cup," said Joo Bong, who hopes the men's team will follow suit when they play China in the Thomas Cup final on Sunday. In the Uber Cup final, World No 2 Akane Yamaguchi gave Japan a perfect start when she saw off local star Ratchanok Intanon 21-15, 21-19 in the first singles match. Reigning world champion Nozomi Okuhara then sealed the win for Japan when she scored an easy 21-12, 21-9 success over Nitchaon Jindapol. "However, I feel really happy and proud to have contributed to this historic moment for Japan again," said Okuhara.

Source: New Strait Times May 26, 2018 10:41 UTC