Singapore’s “Chinese Slayer” – A Sweet Victory at the Thailand Masters
Over the weekend in Bangkok, Singapore’s up‑and‑coming star, Loh Kean Yew, turned heads in a display that’s earned him the nickname, “Chinese Slayer.” He’s rip‑apart four China‑based shuttlers en route to a hard‑earned title at the Thailand Masters, a tournament that comes with a pretty sweet cheque of US$11,250 and the bragging rights to wrestle the world’s best.
Legend vs. Youth – The Match of the Century
- First Game: Loh starts with a spark, taking the first two points, but the seasoned Lin Dan claws back, pulling ahead to a 19‑14 lead. The Singaporean doesn’t back down. He battles through, chalks up the next seven points, and claims victory 21‑19.
- Second Game: The pattern repeats. Loh opens the fight again, but Lin swallows a large 13‑6 gap. With match points on the line, the young maestro edges back, cuts the deficit, and finally strings together the crucial points to win 21‑18.
What the crowd loved? Loh’s patience, grit, and a touch of that “never‑surrender” attitude—qualities Lin Dan’s experience couldn’t quite take advantage of.
Killing the Chinese Dream
Here’s the quick rundown of the Chinese players who fell to the Singapore star: Sun Feixiang (121st), Liu Haichao (229th), Zhou Zeqi (56th), and Zhao Junpeng (47th). He also bested Wang Tzu‑wei (29th) from Chinese Taipei and Brice Leverdez (30th) from France to seal the semi‑final.
It’s a first: Loh has reached a Level‑5 (Super 300) BWF World Tour final and won it. A major step up from his Grade 3 Continental series titles at 2014 & 2017 Singapore Internationals that followed the 2018 Mongolia and 2017 Malaysia triumphs.
Heart‑Felt Appreciation
After the final point, the 21‑year‑old let the on‑court reporter and his fans know: “Facing Lin was an honor, but I’m just glad I crushed it.” He praised Lin’s experience, noted the physical toll, and thanked his parents, coaches, and the roaring crowd for their unwavering support.
More Than a Title
Beyond the trophy, Loh and fellow Singaporean Yeo Jia Min have joined a Danish club this October, sharpening their game in a new environment. Yeo’s quarter‑final finish in women’s singles shows the dual‑player duo is on the brink of turning good into great.
So there you have it—Singapore’s bright star has upgraded his International Series credentials to a world‑tour triumph, proving that age, humble beginnings, and a fierce heart can ignite rapid success on the global stage.
