Who said what in and around the badminton world over the past week?
FROM KUMAMOTO MASTERS
“I hadn’t been able to win for a long time and those were difficult times but I’m glad it’s over now.”
Kodai Naraoka a relieved man after ending his two-year title drought.
“It was a good tournament. We played well all week so that brings confidence and now we are qualified for the World Tour Finals. Hopefully we will play a lot of good matches in Hangzhou.”
Delphine Delrue looking forward to her third season finale with Thom Gicquel.
“I’m grateful to be back on the podium although this isn’t the best result. Maybe Kumamoto can be considered a lucky break as I didn’t expect to make it this far.”
Women’s singles runner-up Gregoria Mariska Tunjung slowly getting back on her feet after recent health issues.
“We are here to try and get back our best form and although we lost in the semis, we’ve learned something from this week.”
Goh Sze Fei leaving Japan feeling upbeat.
“We are getting older … we have to take care of our bodies to compete with the young generation.”
Ratchanok Intanon after beating long-time rival Nozomi Okuhara in the last four.
“I wasn’t expecting to achieve this streak so I feel quite honoured. I will continue to work on my shortcomings and strive to play well in future.”
Kim Won Ho promising further improvements even after winning a record-equalling 10th men’s doubles title this season with Seo Seung Jae.
FROM ELSEWHERE
“It will be their first time there so it’s a significant progress. We hope they can maintain more consistent performances.”
Coach Herry Iman Pierngadi on Man Wei Chong/Tee Kai Wun qualifying for the World Tour Finals.
“Badminton’s been growing at a very fast rate. In general, all the development programmes – coaching, high performance and women’s sports – are all booming at the minute.”
Former Olympian Chloe Magee encouraged by the sport’s growth in her home country Ireland.
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