RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Indonesian shuttler Putri Kusuma Wardani delivered a spirited performance but fell short in the quarterfinals of the Indonesia Open 2026, losing to China’s Chen Yu Fei in straight sets, 21-13, 22-20, at Istora Senayan, Jakarta, on Friday, June 5.

The world No. 5 had never beaten Chen in three previous encounters, and the fourth meeting lasted 45 minutes before Chen’s experience proved decisive.

“I’m quite satisfied with my performance overall. But in the second game, I was leading by a wide margin, and that’s what disappointed me. I was so close to forcing a rubber game and giving myself a chance to win,” Putri said after the match.

In the second game, Putri surged ahead 18-10, but Chen responded with seven consecutive points to level the score.

“At 18 points, I became too rushed,” Putri admitted. “I only needed one more point to take the game, but I couldn’t finish it.”

“In the setting points, I tried to speed up the tempo. But Chen can handle fast play well. Actually, I scored more points through rallies," she said, reflecting on her tactical choices.

At 20-20, Chen remained composed and sealed the game, securing her place in the semifinals.

“What makes Chen difficult is her focus. Even when trailing, she keeps fighting for every point. Her consistency is very strong, while I still wasted too many points in crucial moments,” Putri explained.

Chen will now face her long-time rival An Se Young of Korea in the semifinals. Putri, meanwhile, will return to training to sharpen her consistency ahead of her next tournament, the Japan Open 2026. (Diva Rifdah)