SEO YUHUI DOMINATES IN FAREWELL MATCH AGAINST JEON JIHUI
Seo Yuhui showcased her exceptional skills at the WTT Series Singapore Smash, delivering a decisive victory over her long-time doubles partner Jeon Jihee, who was competing in her farewell match.
This event marked the beginning of the women’s singles competition at one of the world’s top table tennis tournaments, where both players, renowned for their partnership, faced off with emotions running high. Seo Yuhui triumphed with confidence, winning the match 3-0, with set scores of 11-8, 11-6, and 11-7. The match occurred on February 3, 2025, amid great anticipation from fans.
The atmosphere was charged, combining competitive spirit and deep friendship. Seo's performance maintained composure, following Jeon’s lead early on. But after the score tied at 4-4, Seo’s powerful shots propelled her to take control, capitalizing on Jeon’s uncharacteristic errors. Seo not only led through the first but also gained momentum, securing the second set convincingly.
“I felt really special playing my last match against Yuhui,” Jeon Jihee remarked after the game, reflecting on her emotional exit from professional play.
Seo continued to dominate, starting the third set with six consecutive points. Despite Jeon's efforts to rally back, the match concluded without any significant shifts. After the final point, Seo approached Jeon warmly, enveloping her with congratulations.
The crowd witnessed a special moment as the two athletes shared joy, hugging and taking pictures to commemorate Jeon’s farewell. Jointly, they formed heart gestures with their hands, signifying their enduring friendship beyond the competition.
The long-established duo had gained recognition for their achievements, which included winning the gold medal at the 2022 Hangzhou Asian Games and capturing the bronze at the 2024 Paris Olympics. Their recent partnership ended when Jeon announced her retirement after last year's mixed team World Cup, making this match particularly poignant.
Seo expressed her gratitude saying, “Jeon taught me so much and was the best partner I could have. We achieved the best results together.”
It's clear the bond formed through years of collaboration will remain, even as they pursue different paths. While Seo heads forward, ready to team up with newly retained partner Lee Eun-hye, Jeon leaves the competitive scene as one of South Korea’s premier table tennis players.
Both athletes demonstrated not just their competitive spirit but also the camaraderie and respect cultivated over years of partnership. The match not only served as competition but as celebration, paying homage to mutual accomplishments and friendship.
Fans and commentators hailed Seo’s victory as another ascent for her career, heading toward future tournaments. Meanwhile, Jeon Jihee’s contribution to the sport will not be forgotten, as she leaves behind a legacy of excellence and mentorship, encouraging rising stars to follow her path.
Through this event, both players reminded everyone of the sport's power to forge lifelong connections and celebrate past triumphs, setting the stage for what lies ahead.