BANGKOK: From Sea Games gold medallist to becoming a national hero, Busanan Ongbamrungphan on Friday delivered the winning point as Thailand made history by reaching their maiden Uber Cup final. This is also the first time since 1984 that China have failed to reach the Uber Cup final, and also the first since the departure of former head coach Li Yongbo. To beat someone like Li Xuerui is no ordinary feat, this is amazing. Nitchaon Jindapol (left) of Thailand hits a return against Gao Fangjie of China during their Uber Cup semifinals badminton match at the Thomas and Uber Cup 2018 in Bangkok. Busanan, who claimed the 2015 Singapore Sea Games gold, then sent Thailand into ecstasy, with a historic win over Xuerui, who was the gold medallist at the 2012 London Olympics.

Source: New Strait Times May 25, 2018 12:56 UTC