Young Malaysian squash player J.Keerti Pradhaa continued her impressive run this year as she won the girls’ Under-13 title at the Hong Kong Junior Open on Sunday.
She was competing in the tournament for the first time and managed to pull off an impressive win against the Japan’s top seed Yoshino Rio in a tough five-game final.
Keerti defeated Yoshino with 11-9, 9-11, 11-9,8-11,11-6, which shows strong fighting spirit and composure throughout the match. Yoshino had previously finished as a runner-up at the Asian Junior Championships in Panzhihua, China, in May.
The victory is Keerti’s fifth title of the year, adding another achievement to what had already been a successful season for the young player.
Five Titles in an Impressive Year
Keerti previously won the SRAM National Junior Championships Under-13, SRAM National Junior Circuit first leg Under-15, Malaysian Schools Sports Council Under-12, and the Nicol David Rising Stars Under-13 title.
She also finished as runner-up in the SRAFKL International Under-13 tournament. Keerti said she was especially happy with her latest victory as it was her first appearance at the Hong Kong Junior Open. She also thanked everyone who had supported and believed in her throughout her journey.
Her parents, K.Junivar Bala and S.Kirubahshiny, have played an important role in supporting her career as a squash player. They currently fund Keerti’s training, tournament participation, travelling and other sporting expenses.
Junivar said the family was proud to see Keerti’s hard work and dedication paying off, while also ensuring that she maintains a good balance between squash and her education.
Her parents hope to continue giving Keerti opportunities to grow and improve with their focus going beyond winning titles. They want her to reach her full potential while maintaining a healthy balance between education, sports, and personal development.
With 5 titles secured this year, Keerti’s latest victory in Hong Kong marks another promising step in her young squash career.
Sources: nst
