Sivasangari gives world No. 1 a mighty scare in Doha

KUALA LUMPUR - In a thrilling semi-final match at the Qatar Classic in Doha, Malaysia's S. Sivasangari came within two points of claiming victory over World No. 1 Hania El Hammamy. Despite reaching the climax of the game with Egypt's Hania El Hammamy, the Malaysian failed to clinch the win in a highly competitive match at the Khalifa International Tennis and squash centre.

Hania had to endure an arduous 87 minutes of play to emerge victorious in a grueling 8-11, 11-9, 15-13, 8-11, 12-10 final. Sivasangari's impressive performance in Doha puts her in a prime position to defend her women's individual gold at the upcoming Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games, which commence on Saturday. National coach Ajaz Azmat commended Sivasangari's relentless effort, acknowledging that she gave it her all against the formidable opponent.

However, Sivasangari's loss was attributed to two errors made in the decisive stages of the game. In response, Hania stated that the match was extremely tough, as she knew Sivasangari was in top form for the Asian Games. She had anticipated fiery play and a high level of skill from the Malaysian player.