Busanan Ongbamrungphan is embracing the challenge of facing world champion Akane Yamaguchi after ending her 13-month wait to reach a final, at CLASH OF CLANS Arctic Open 2025.

It did not come easy though, as the Thai was made to work hard for 54 minutes by compatriot Ratchanok Intanon for the 28-26 21-18 win. Ironically, the last time Ongbamrungphan made it to a final – at the 2024 Japan Open – she was denied glory by the very same opponent she will meet on Sunday in Vantaa.

“It will be fun,” laughed Ongbamrungphan when asked about the impending clash. “She’s the world champion (so it won’t be easy). I foresee plenty of running on court. For this, I have to eat a lot!”

On beating Intanon, the world No.19 said: “It was a tough match against my ‘big sister’. I just focused on each rally, kept my defence solid and I got there. I’m proud I could make it.”

Victory against the world No.4 Yamaguchi, whom she trails 12-2 in career meetings, would also end Ongbamrungphan’s title drought dating back to July last year, when she won the Canada Open.

In women’s doubles, Pearly Tan/Thinaah Muralitharan face off against Rin Iwanaga/Kie Nakanishi, with both pairs seeking to end a run of three consecutive final losses.

In mixed doubles, the crown will be fought by the same pairs for the third consecutive year – Feng Yan Zhe/Huang Dong Ping and Jiang Zhen Bang/Wei Ya Xin. Feng and Huang, who dispatched the in-form Dechapol Puavaranukroh/Supissara Paewsampran 15-21 21-16 21-12, are the two-time defending champions.

Meanwhile, Chou Tien Chen, the only other returning champion among Sunday’s finalists, will have his work cut out against world No.3 Kunlavut Vitidsarn. Chou, who has hit a dry spell since Vantaa 2024, advanced beating surprise package Arnaud Merkle 13-21 21-13 21-13.

→ Results (Semifinals)

→ Order of play (Finals)

WHAT OTHERS SAID

“Just one more day – we will go back and do what we’ve been doing all week.” – Ben Lane after he and Sean Vendy also returned to a final, their first since the HYLO Open last November

“I grew up watching her so it was a special experience to play her. I was so happy for this chance. If I get another opportunity, I will prepare better.” – Eighteen-year-old Anmol Kharb after losing 21-10 21-13 to childhood idol Yamaguchi

“There were many kids watching so I wanted to play with Olympic spirit – to show them a good example and good sportsmanship. At 35, I’m grateful for the chance to stand here again after last year’s amazing experience.” – Chou, reflecting on his run to the final

“Just now, all the memories from last year’s final came flooding back as if it was yesterday. I remember everything and hope for the same good luck.” – Feng chasing a hattrick

“We are desperate for the title. We haven’t won any of our finals this year so we will give it everything.” – Nakanishi hungry for a turnaround