25-05-2025
Shifeng makes Malaysia Masters history
KUALA LUMPUR: World No. 4 Li Shifeng made history as the first Chinese shuttler to win the Malaysia Masters men's singles title.
Shifeng defeated India's former world No. 1 K. Srikanth 21-11, 21-9 in just 36 minutes at the Axiata Arena today.
Shi Feng said he was surprised to learn that he was the first shuttler from China to win the men's crown.
And he was more relieved to land his first World Tour title of the year after falling in the semi-final stage of three consecutive tournaments prior to the Malaysia Masters.
"I didn't expect to be the first (winner from China) at this event because I wasn't really paying attention to who had won it before. But I think it's a very good start," said Shi Feng.
"It's an encouragement and a relief. I haven't won a title in a long time.
"But there's still a big gap with the top players as I haven't won titles at Super 1000-level or major competitions like the World Championships."
Previously, Shifeng's last tournament win was the Super 500 Kumamoto Masters in November, last year.
Despite his defeat, world No. 65 Srikanth produced a commendable performance at the Malaysia Masters, battling his way from the qualifying rounds to the final. It was the Indian's first final appearance since finishing runner-up to Singaporean Loh Kean Yew in the 2021 World Championships.
