The match between top seed Jack Wong and Asia's number one pickleball player, Trinh Linh Giang, took place at the Kai Tak Arena, Wong's home court. Linh Giang started stronger, leading 3-0, then 7-3, before losing the first set 9-11. The Vietnamese player recovered in the second set, taking a 6-0 lead and winning 11-4.
 |
Linh Giang plays a backhand in the PPA Tour Asia Hong Kong final at Kai Tak Arena on 24/8. Photo: PPA |
Linh Giang plays a backhand in the PPA Tour Asia Hong Kong final at Kai Tak Arena on 24/8. Photo: PPA
In front of his home crowd, Jack Wong started the deciding set strongly, leading 6-0. Facing a difficult situation, Linh Giang changed tactics, playing short shots towards the kitchen line, forcing Wong to move more. The 28-year-old player took a 9-6 lead, causing Wong to call for a medical timeout.
Upon returning, Linh Giang lost his momentum, making repeated errors and falling behind 9-10. At match point, the Vietnamese player hit the ball towards Wong's forehand, allowing his opponent to finish quickly at the net. Losing 9-11, a disappointed Linh Giang held his head in his hands while Wong celebrated his victory in front of the Hong Kong crowd.
Wong successfully avenged his loss to Linh Giang in the Malaysia Open semi-final last month. The Hong Kong player received 1,800 USD in prize money and 1,000 ranking points on the PPA Tour Asia.
Discouraged after the loss in the men's pro singles final, Linh Giang subsequently lost in the mixed pro doubles final, partnering with Connie Lee against Aiko Yoshitomi and Robert Stirling (1-11, 7-11). As the first Vietnamese representative to reach two finals at the pro level of the PPA Tour Asia, Linh Giang ultimately couldn't secure a title.
 |
Linh Giang (second from left) and Wong (center) at the award ceremony of the PPA Tour Asia Hong Kong at Kai Tak Arena on 24/8. Photo: PPA |
Linh Giang (second from left) and Wong (center) at the award ceremony of the PPA Tour Asia Hong Kong at Kai Tak Arena on 24/8. Photo: PPA
The 28-year-old Linh Giang, from Hanoi, was a top Vietnamese tennis star, contributing significantly to the national team in the Davis Cup and regional tournaments. However, with the rise of pickleball, he transitioned to the sport and often partners with Ly Hoang Nam in major tournaments in Vietnam, the region, and internationally.
Vy Anh
