Victor Lai produced another memorable World Championships victory over Loh Kean Yew, defeating the Singaporean 22-20, 21-18 in the Round of 16 — exactly the same score as their meeting at last year’s World Championships.
The Canadian found himself in trouble early in the opening game after Loh won eight consecutive points, but Lai fought back to force a tense finish and edged the game in deuce.
Lai then showed impressive composure in the second game, using a combination of defence, control and well-timed attacks to neutralise Loh’s speed. After falling behind, he deliberately slowed the pace and forced Loh into several unforced errors before closing out the match.
Remarkably, Lai only realised the scoreline had been identical to last year’s victory after leaving the court.
“I only thought of it once we came off. I was like, oh, it’s the exact same score.”
The victory marks another major step in Lai’s rapid rise. A relative unknown a year ago, the Canadian has now established himself among the world’s elite and will face Rasmus Gemke in the quarterfinals.
Lai admitted there is now greater pressure compared with his previous World Championships appearance, but he is embracing the challenge.
“It’s completely opposite — from nobody to someone who’s been playing pretty well recently, so there are expectations and I feel a bit of pressure and nerves.”
With his confidence growing and his consistency improving, Lai is now dreaming of going even further in New Delhi.
“Hopefully I can take it step-by-step and make it into the semis and then keep going.”
