China Masters: Miyazaki Refuses to Blink, Defies Wang

Tomoka Miyazaki turned reflection into resilience on Saturday, producing a stunning comeback to defeat second-seeded local favourite Wang Zhi Yi 21-19 23-21 and reach the LI-NING China Masters 2026 final.

The Japanese youngster appeared to be slipping away in the opening game when Wang moved 19-15 ahead. Then came a remarkable six-point surge. Miyazaki seized control, taking the game 21-19 and carrying that momentum into a tense second.

At 20-19, she stared down match point. She saved it. At 21-20, she did it again. Moments later, Miyazaki had completed one of the biggest wins of her career.

“It’s just pure joy and happiness,” she said after the match.

The victory is Miyazaki’s first over Wang. It also sets up the second biggest final of her career, following her runner-up finish to Wang at the Super 1000 China Open in 2024.

Miyazaki credited the lessons from a disappointing World Championships last month, where she lost in the last 16 to Michelle Li, for giving her the resolve to fight through.

“After India, I took some time to reflect on where I fell short and how I could improve,” she said. “Today, the key to winning was my unwavering determination, which came from those reflections on my strengths and weaknesses.”

Wang acknowledged the difference: “She was faster and controlled the tempo better. She played really well.”

One challenge remains for world No.4 Miyazaki – top seed An Se Young, whom she is yet to get the better of in seven meetings.

The Korean world No.1 defeated Akane Yamaguchi 21-13 21-15 in the first semifinal of the day to maintain her record of losing just once this season.