* Spanish flags inside the stadium inspire Marin
* Rankings don’t bother me – Marin
* Li Xuerui not losing sleep over defeat
World champion Carolina Marin is on fire when it come to “biggies” and she added the Maybank Malaysia Open Super Series Premier title the World title she won in Copenhagen last August before adding the prestigious All England title in March this year.
Ā Both were firsts for Spain, a country better known for football, tennis and bull fighting.
On Sunday, Marin was “so much at home” as the Malaysian fans gave her feel at home. They came armed with Spanish flags which did not go unnoticed as Marin said “the Spanish flags inspired me” when I was down.
“With so much support from the Malaysian fans I was not about to disappoint them. Actually, I am rather surprised that they Malaysians were throwing their support behind me,” said Marin after her 71 minute battle against top seed Li Xuerui of China before prevailing 19-21, 21-19, 21-17 to pocket USD37,500 for her win in 71 minutes..
“Winning the title in Malaysia is something I will cherish as this is my first title in this part of the world,” said Marin who has set sights oon retaining her world title in Jakarta in August.
“This is my first final in Malaysia and I was highly motivated not to miss the chance although I was up against Li Xuerui. I has beaten her in the world championships final In Denmark but it did not mean I will win again. At the same time I knew I could beat her if I played to my game plan.
“It worked although I was nervous when I took the court. I tried to keep the shuttle inside the court. With the fans cheering on and the sight of the Spanish flags inside the stadium, I was inspired,” added the 20-year-old Marin.
Xuerei is not losing any sleep over her defeat.
“I am coming back after a long layoff due to injury. Winning and losing is part of the game. At this stage I am happy with my overall performance and I am confident of fighting for the World No 1 status…if I keep my form and compete in tournaments to garner points.
“I know can better after my recovery. In the final against Carolina I had my opportunities but failed to grab when it mattered,” said Xuerui, adding that currently Marin is good form and playing her best badminton.
Ā RESULTS FINALS
Ā WOMEN’S SINGLES
Ā Carolina Marin (Spn) beat Li Xuerui (Chn)Ā 19-21, 21-19, 21-17
