China’s badminton world number one, Shi Yu Qi, continued his recent struggles with a disappointing quarterfinal loss at the Korea Open on Friday. He fell to Hong Kong’s Lee Cheuk-yiu in a straight-sets match, 21-13, 21-15.
Shi’s form has been inconsistent since taking over the top spot from double Olympic champion Viktor Axelsen in June. He has faced early exits in recent tournaments, including a quarterfinal loss at the Paris Games and a semifinal defeat to French teenager Alex Lanier at last week’s Japan Open.
Despite these recent setbacks, the 28-year-old Shi has still managed to secure four tournament victories on the badminton world tour this year. However, his inability to consistently perform at the highest level has raised questions about his ability to maintain his top ranking.
Axelsen, the former world number one, is not participating in the Korea Open. Shi will be looking to regain his form and consistency as he prepares for upcoming tournaments.
