Indonesian Duo Clinches Fourth Luck at Australian Open 2024
Conor Hudson
Tue Jun 25 2024
Indonesian badminton players Febriana Dwipuji Kusuma and Amallia Cahaya Pratiwi secured their first victory in a Grand Slam final at the Australian Open 2024. Overcoming past disappointments, the duo displayed resilience and determination in their hard-fought triumph.
Kusuma and Pratiwi had previously faced defeat in three consecutive finals, including the Chinese Taipei Open and Spain Masters last year, and the Thailand Open earlier this year. However, their persistence paid off as they outplayed the Malaysian pair of Lai Pei Jing and Lim Chiew Sien in a thrilling final that went 12-21, 21-7, 21-13.
Reflecting on their journey to victory, Kusuma acknowledged the initial pressure they felt given their past losses but highlighted their unwavering desire to succeed. The 23-year-old expressed gratitude for overcoming the mental barrier in their fourth title challenge, emphasizing their commitment to continuous improvement and learning from the experience.
Pratiwi echoed Kusuma's sentiments, emphasizing that their work does not stop here. Despite facing challenges in the first set, the duo regained momentum in the second set, setting the stage for a decisive third set. She emphasized the importance of hard work and dedication in their ongoing badminton journey.
The success of Kusuma and Pratiwi marks Indonesia's second triumph of the season at the Super 500 level, following the victory of Daniel Marthin and Leo Rolly Carnando at the Indonesia Masters. Additionally, Kusuma and Pratiwi became the first Indonesian women's pair to claim the Australian Open title since Aprilsasi Putri Lejarsar Variella and Vita Marissa in 2013.
The path to victory was paved with challenges and setbacks, but Kusuma and Pratiwi's resilience and determination ultimately led them to success at the Australian Open 2024. Their triumph not only signifies personal growth and achievement but also adds another accolade to Indonesia's rich badminton legacy.