TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Taiwan's badminton ace Tai Tzu-ying (戴資穎) faced a disappointing exit from the Victor China Open on Wednesday (Sept. 18). She lost to Denmark's Julie Dawall Jakobsen with scores of 14-21, 21-7, 19-21, failing to advance to the round of 16.
Tai, who plans to retire at the end of this year, shared on Instagram that she cried after receiving an encouraging message from her father, Tai Nan-kai (戴楠凱). He advised her to ice her injuries and eat well, urging her to pursue her dreams and be herself. Tai expressed gratitude for her family's support during tough times.
Reflecting on her upcoming retirement, Tai said she remains uncertain about how long she can continue but is determined to give her best as long as she can. Earlier this year, she competed in the Olympics despite an injury, but her journey ended in the group stage, leaving her with regrets.
Following the Olympics, Tai reached the semifinals at the Yonex Open Japan but withdrew due to her injury. She has competed in three consecutive tournaments since the Yonex Taipei Open in September, culminating in this week's Victor China Open.