This tournament is part of the Badminton World Federation's (BWF) World Tour Super 750 series, boasting a total prize pool of 1.25 million USD. Its significance in terms of ranking points attracts the world's top female badminton players.

In her first match, Thuy Linh, ranked 18th globally, faced Singapore's top player, Yeo Jia Min, ranked 15th. The first set was a close contest, with both players exchanging points. Thuy Linh held a 19-18 lead towards the end, but then made several errors, ultimately losing 19-21.

In the second set, trailing Yeo 0-3, Thuy Linh signaled to the umpire, withdrawing due to injury.

Thuy Linh in the Vietnam Open 2025 final, where she lost to Cai Yanyan on 14/9. Photo: Anh Phuong

"I apologize to everyone," she shared on her social media after leaving the tournament. "Today's result is not what I, or any athlete, would want. I would never want to see 'retired' in my match record. Today, I stepped onto the court and gave my best, but the pain in my foot and ankle, which I've had for several days, prevented me from moving normally. Before the match, I consulted with the doctor and was warned about the possibility of further injury, even a torn ligament, if I wasn't careful."

The Phu Tho-born player had just competed in a demanding Vietnam Open, playing 5 matches and finishing as runner-up. Immediately after the final on Saturday evening, she flew to Guangdong for the China Masters. The combination of insufficient recovery time and the pre-existing injury led to her decision to withdraw.

"Thank you to the spectators for watching, cheering, and understanding. I will try my best to recover and see you at the next tournaments," Thuy Linh added.

Duc Dong