SINGAPORE – In a thrilling showdown at the Taipei Open semi-finals, World No. 11 Loh Kean Yew stormed back from a shaky start to defeat home crowd favorite Wang Tzu-wei, clinching a spot in the final with a score of 21-18, 21-9. This victory inches him closer to his 10th career title.

Set to face Taiwanese star Chou Tien-chen, who boasts a 4-3 head-to-head advantage after their last clash at the 2024 Thailand Masters, Loh is gearing up for what promises to be an intense final.

"I'm thrilled to be in another final! The job isn't done yet, and I'm focused and ready for tomorrow's match. Facing the home favorite will be tough, but I'm determined to give it my all," Loh stated, reflecting on his journey.

The atmosphere was electric at the Taipei Arena as both players received a rousing welcome. However, it was Wang who quickly took command, capitalizing on Loh’s early misjudgments—an unsettling seven-point deficit loomed at one point.

With Loh trailing 10-16, he faced a tactical crossroads. National coach Kim Ji-hyun noted the unusual court conditions: "The draught made one side of the court faster, prompting a tactical shift. I advised Loh to take more risks and dominate the front court."

Loh embraced the coaching strategy, convincing himself to adjust his game plan. The momentum shifted dramatically as he clawed his way back with aggressive play, culminating in a breathtaking 49-shot rally that he won—seizing the lead at 18-17. He ultimately closed the first game with a shout of triumph.

Wang, ranked World No. 26, confessed that he struggled to keep pace as Loh intensified the game, admitting that getting back into rhythm was challenging after his opponent’s resurgence.

With past victories favoring Wang, this time Loh was not interested in dragging the match out; he showcased an array of unpredictable shots in the second game, easily sealing the win 21-9.

This victory marks a significant resurgence for the 2021 world champion, who has faced ups and downs since his quarter-final appearance at the 2024 Paris Olympics. Recently, he reached the finals of the German Open and the quarter-finals of the All England Open, showcasing his relentless spirit.

In addition to his world title, Loh has claimed triumphs at the Badminton World Federation World Tour, with victories in Thailand, Germany, and Spain.