Wang Zhi Yi and Chen Yu Fei overcame familiar opponents in contrasting fashion to secure their places in the VICTOR China Open 2026 women’s singles quarter-finals.
Two-time defending champion Wang ended a three-match losing streak against South Korea’s Sim Yu Jin with a composed 21-16, 21-15 victory.
The world No. 2 remains on course to become only the second women’s singles player in China Open history to win three consecutive titles, following Jiang Yanjiao’s achievement from 2008 to 2010.
Wang was pleased with how she handled the pressure and adapted her tactics when needed.
“Every match is a new one. You’ve just got to stay in the moment, focus on what’s in front and think about tomorrow when it comes,” Wang said.
She added that she was more determined to make tactical adjustments during difficult moments, something she felt she had struggled with in previous meetings against Sim.
“I felt I was in a very focused state, that’s what I’m most satisfied with,” she said.
Chen Yu Fei’s victory was even more dramatic.
Just one week after retiring from her Japan Open semi-final against Pusarla V. Sindhu due to injury, the Tokyo 2020 Olympic champion produced a stunning comeback to book her place in the last eight.
Chen lost the opening game and appeared to be heading out when she trailed 20-16 in the second. However, she showed remarkable composure to win six consecutive points and steal the game 22-20.
The former world champion then completed her comeback by taking the deciding game 21-18, sealing a hard-fought 16-21, 22-20, 21-18 victory.
Both Wang and Chen will now look to continue their strong runs as the China Open enters the quarter-final stage.
