As Chen Yu Fei raised her arms in celebration at the Singapore Indoor Stadium, it wasn’t just relief – it was release.

Her 21-13 21-16 quarterfinal win over An Se Young at KFF Singapore Open 2025 was more than a tactical victory. It was a moment of redemption.

“Since the Olympics, people kept asking when Chinese players would beat An again,” said Chen, who had lost twice to the Korean star this year. “There were many doubts from the outside but now that I’ve recovered, I feel I can compete with her.”

It ended An’s unbeaten run in 2025 and marked Chen’s first victory over her since the Indonesia Open last June. While Chen spoke of “recovery, adjustment and change in mentality”, An was candid about her own struggle.

“I couldn’t play my game or increase my pace,” said An, who returned to HSBC BWF World Tour action after a two-month break following her All England triumph. “The drift affects everyone, it’s just a matter of who has the better control and focus on the day.

“Yes, I lost a match but this isn’t the end of the season. I need to improve and continue working for upcoming tournaments,” added the world No.1, whose last defeat was also to a Chinese player – Wang Zhi Yi in the HSBC BWF World Tour Finals semifinals in December.

Chen remained grounded.

“One match doesn’t mean I’m back to my peak,” she said. “But today, I was fully prepared and my execution was better.

“An is still one of the strongest players. Every battle with her is a chance to learn and challenge.”

→ Results (Quarterfinals)

→ Order of play (Semifinals)

WHAT OTHERS SAID

“My game was solid and I was aggressive. Loh put up a big fight, the scoreline isn’t reflective of the big battle we had. Every point was difficult but I was more patient and precise with my shots.” – Christo Popov after ending local star Loh Kean Yew’s hopes

“I just played badly and I think I’m mentally drained as well. Yesterday was a miracle but miracles don’t happen everyday. I tried my best although it might not have looked like it and Christo played a good game.” – Loh

“It’s our next big goal. A new partner and it’s in Paris so it will be amazing. Excited for it.” – Gronya Somerville on qualifying for her sixth World Championships