Helle Sofie Sagoy has a point to prove in tomorrow’s SL4 women’s singles semifinal, facing Srinavakul for the second time this week

Norway’s Golden Girl Helle Sofie Sagoy did not look in great shape earlier this week. Rumours of fatigue or injury circled as the crowd watched Sagoy narrowly escape Group A with her seeded number one status intact.

Facing her across the net was Thailand’s Chanida Srinavakul, the world number twelve, whom Sagoy had dispatched on three previous occasions in straight games.

This time was different, Sagoy battled to a first game win at 23-21 and lost the second 21-15. Something didn’t look right about her game although the Norwegian managed to cling on and take the match in a close decider.

Read: Basova: I did not expect this at all

Fresh from a bronze medal in Brazil, Sagoy sits at number three in the world rankings and the closest contender to Cheng (CHN) and Oktila (INA) who continue to dominate the SL4 class.

Srinavakul may be able to qualify for the Games via the women’s doubles rankings, but like many, she fights on in singles to help her cause. Clearly she came out fighting this week and has another chance tomorrow do one better and beat Sagoy as they meet once more in the semi-finals.

Sagoy: I was very lucky to win

We spoke with Helle Sagoy after the win earlier this week, who has been suffering from food poisoning. She had this for us

-I was very lucky to win this match because I have been feeling unwell all day due to food poisoning. I had to leave the venue right after the match and I’ve been laying down resting ever since. I have a day free and that will really help me try to recover!

-Chanida is a tough opponent, and we have met a few times. I knew I had a realistic chance of getting through in first place if I was able to complete the match. I didn’t feel well, and she had a good game. That smash is a big weapon. I’m glad I didn’t give up and happy that I managed to win without giving my best, added Sagoy

-We are almost in Tokyo, just one more tournament after this one. It has been an adventure that I will never forget. I’ve done my best and happy with my ranking. Hopefully there are some good tournaments left for me this year to prepare for the Paralympics, said the Norwegian

Look out for updates from the Peru Para badminton International 2020 this week, see tournament software here for draws and results.