Spain Masters: Indonesia Dominate as Popov Prevents Whitewash

In a dominant display of fuerza bruta, Team Indonesia secured finalists in each discipline for the finals of the Spain Masters 2021. In a week that has seen a culmination of 166 players from 24 countries descend into the city of Huelva.

Popov Powers Through

Toma Junior Popov emerged victorious as he claimed his first Super 300 title on the final day in 21-15 21-17 match, capitalising on his strong attacking form.

Toma Junior Popov claimed his first Super 300 title.

The Frenchman roared in celebration as feisty Indonesian Chico Aura Dwi Wardoyo hit a long shot to the back of the court to hand Popov the title.

“I think everyone saw my emotions at the end of the match. I was living the dream. I think I can just relax and be happy and celebrate. I’ll take a little break and begin training for the next season after the Olympics. I’m so happy, it’s amazing,” said a relieved Popov.

Wonderful Wardani

Brilliant teen sensation Putri Kusuma Wardani from Indonesia got the better of women’s singles favourite, Line Christophersen from Denmark in straight games 21-15 21-10 and also claimed her first Super 300 event title.

Wardani defeated Denmark’s Line Christophersen 21-15 21-10.

Wardani punched rallies with panache and power to her opponent with the Dane making several unforced errors to the net.

An emotional Wardani said: “I feel so happy to be a champion in the venue that is named after my idol, Carolina Marin. It’s not about the winning or losing, it’s about being able to play well. I know if I play well, the victory will come and I managed to do that.”

Double Threat

There were significant wins for Indonesia’s men’s and women’s pairs on the final day too.

Yulfira Barkah/Febby Valencia Dwijayanti Gani took the women’s doubles title over no. 1 seeds Amalie Magelund/Freja Ravn from Denmark 21-16 21-14.

On just their second outing as a doubles pair, the Indonesian duo held their nerve and seven match points to take their maiden victory at a HSBC BWF World Tour event.

“We are very happy to be champions here in Huelva. We played our maximum effort out on court today and we hope this is just the beginning and there’s more to come,” said Barkah.

“This is the second time we have played together. This time around, we feel we have made improvements since the Orleans Masters 2021, especially with each other,” added a delighted Gani clutching her Spanish galleon themed trophy.

Teammates Pramudya Kusumawardana/Yeremia Erich Yoche Yacob Rambitan took their first tournament victory as a combination 21-15 18-21 21-14 in a three-match thriller over compatriots Sabar Karyaman Gutama/Moh Reza Pahlevi Isfahani.

Kusumawardana and Rambitan celebrate their victory.

 

Tension, hard-work, commitment and drive. The match had it all as the pair remained calm and dug deep to seal the win.

“I’m so happy right now I can’t wait to get back to Indonesia,” beamed Rambitan.

“We’re very happy with this title, it’s something we have been waiting a long time for and we’re happy to prove that we can win titles,” revealed Kusumawardana.

Finishing up a incredible day for Indonesia were mixed doubles champions Rinov Rivaldy/Pitha Haningtyas Mentari who prevailed over no.2 seeds Niclas Nohr/Amalie Magelund 21-18 21-15 from Denmark.

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