Akari Kurihara: The Rising Star of Ciputra Hanoi Badminton Tournament
Conor Hudson
Sun Mar 17 2024
Since 2023, Akari Kurihara has emerged as a formidable opponent for Vietnamese shuttlers, challenging the likes of Thuỳ Linh and Anh Thư. At just 22 years old, Kurihara has made her mark in international badminton, showcasing her talent and determination on the court.
Born on June 22, 2001, Kurihara began her professional badminton career in 2019 and has shown significant progress since 2023. Despite only competing internationally for a little over a year, she has already collected titles, including the championship at the Mongolia International 2022.
Facing Kurihara and another Japanese player, Suizu Manami, at the Vietnam Open, Nguyen Thuỳ Linh, Vietnam's top female player, acknowledged the challenges posed by Japanese opponents, emphasizing the level of skill and resilience required to overcome them.
In September 2023, ranked 156th globally, Kurihara's outstanding performance at the Vietnam Open demonstrated her strength and potential, pushing Thuỳ Linh to her limits in a thrilling final match.
Returning to Vietnam six months later, Kurihara climbed to 90th in the rankings, displaying not just improved skills but also maturity and experience. Her diverse playing style and strategic shots have made her a force to be reckoned with on the court.
Her improved physical fitness was evident in her match against Anh Thư, where she displayed composure under pressure, even after a grueling three-set battle in the previous round. Heading into the semifinals against seed number six Kim Ga Ram, Kurihara is poised to continue her impressive run and potentially achieve new heights in her career.
Akari Kurihara's rapid rise in the badminton world has captivated fans and players alike, and her journey from a rising star to a prominent contender is a testament to her talent and dedication. With each match, she showcases her skills, resilience, and determination, setting the stage for a promising future in the sport.