KUALA LUMPUR: Former world junior champion Goh Jin Wei made a winning comeback following a nine-month hiatus from international badminton when she cleared the opening hurdle of the Korea Open today.
Jin Wei, the world No 128, made the most of her late inclusion into the Super 500 event by pulling off a 21-19, 16-21, 21-17 upset win over 52nd-ranked Asuka Takahashi of Japan.
The 22-year-old had last played an international event in the Spanish International in June last year where she finished runner-up to compatriot S. Kisona.
Three months later, Jin Wei shocked the nation by announcing her retirement, only to make a U-turn on her decision earlier this year.
Jin Wei's victory summed up a good day for the Malaysian shuttlers as the rest, who were in action today, also advanced to the second round.
Ng Tze Yong and Cheam June Wei progressed in style in the men's singles, beating Kalle Koljonen of Finland 20-22, 22-20, 21-10 and H. S. Prannoy of India 21-17, 21-7, respectively.
Ong Yew Sin-Teo Ee Yi had no problem ousting India's Bokka Navaneeth-B. Sumeeth Reddy 21-14, 21-12 in the men's doubles, and they were joined by Tan Kian Meng-Tan Wee Kiong, who defeated Kim Hwi Tae-Yoon Dae Il 21-18, 21-13.