Vietnam’s badminton star wins German Open semifinals

Linh started the first game with deep smashes in the first half and precise drop shots in the second, making the second-best female player in South Korea struggled to reach the shuttle.

Kim, however, relentlessly fought back and reached 20-20 points. She continued with high quality shots and won the match 22-20.

The Vietnamese player chose a flexible playstyle in the second half, mixing net shots with half smashes and forcing her opponent to move quickly to defend, only to accept a loss of 8-21.

Linh entered the third game with difficulties as her shots were out and predictable, allowing Kim to lead 5-2.

Linh however bounced back with confidence to win seven points in a row and was able to extend the winnings to 21-16.

After scoring the match point, Linh hugged and celebrated with consultant Lauren Lam, a Chinese-born American player who lost to Linh in the round of 16.

Most badminton players travel to competitions with a coach. But due to limited budget, Linh often travels alone. Most of the time another coach or player at the competition will volunteer to consult and assist Linh.

Linh, who stands 23rd in world ranking, will play the finals Sunday evening against Danish player Mia Blichfeldt, ranking 18th.

This is the first time she advances to the finals of a Badminton World Federation (BWF) World Tour Super 300 event.