Thomas Indonesia vs China Final: Jonathan Saves the Face of the Indonesian Team

Also read: Thomas Indonesia Vs China Final: Fajar/Rian Lose in Small Details, Indonesia Behind 0-2

Despite being narrowly ranked in the world, Jonatan has a far superior record against Li in their previous meetings with 5 wins and 1 loss. In fact, Jonatan recently won easily against the sixth-ranked player in the world in their last meeting at the 2024 Asian Championship final last April, with a score of 21-15, 21-16.

Jonatan's superiority in technical and physical quality was clearly evident during the 1 hour and 17 minute battle. Li, who wanted to be the hero of his team's victory, gave his all until the end. However, Li had to once again acknowledge Jonatan's superiority for the second time in front of his own audience.

Jonatan played with a very heavy burden. Indonesia was already trailing 0-2. He must win if he still wants to keep the chance to become the champion of Thomas Cup. The pressure was disruptive at the beginning of the game, he was left behind, 2-5. Then, he rose up by creating seven consecutive points and turned to lead, 9-5.

Thank God that being behind 0-2 is not easy. I remember the moment of Thomas Cup two years ago, in the same position but I didn't want to be the determinant of defeat.

Li's attempts at smashes were repeated and widened. She seemed to be trying to play more aggressively, despite the higher risks involved. This gamble paid off until the break, as Li managed to turn the tables and take the lead 11-9. She even created six consecutive points. The momentum of the match flew aimlessly in the early stages of the third game.

Also read: Thomas Indonesia Vs China Final: Anthony Loses His Identity in the Opening Match

Jonatan leveled the score, 14-14, after being able to defend better. He increased the number of long rallies, taking advantage of Li's frequent mistakes. Li was unable to reverse the situation until the end of the game. When he was far enough ahead, Jonatan played more aggressively with powerful smashes. He closed the game, 21-16.

Jonathan looked calmer in the second game. He flashed a big smile when he managed to score points with a drop shot, then went up 4-2. However, this calm turned out to be not very profitable. Jonathan made consecutive mistakes and fell behind, 6-7.

Li changed strategy. He challenged Jonathan to a rally. The home player was much more patient with various combinations of net play and lobs, before delivering his big smash. Li also scored seven points in a row and was able to lead at the break, 11-7.

The biggest factor in Li's loss to Jonatan in the Asian Championship was his net play. He was overwhelmed by Jonatan's skill at the net. Today, he was better in decision-making. Li won many points from lures in front of the net, and led far ahead, 17-11. Li won the second game 21-15.

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Jonathan regained control of the game at the start of the third game. He troubled Li with a drive punch combination. From a draw, 4-4, Jonathan walked away with a 7-4 lead. Li had time to equalize, 7-7. Then, Li looked exhausted after getting points from the 43-shot rally.

Jonatan was leading, 11-8, during the break after Li was forced out of the court three times. With superior stamina, the 2024 All England champion became unstoppable. After leading 15-10, Jonatan was briefly surprised by Li's "second wind," which narrowed the gap to two points. However, he was still able to secure the victory, 21-17.

Also read: History of the Thomas Cup and Indonesia's Achievement Records

Jonatan wrapped up his journey in the Thomas Cup with a perfect record of 6 wins in 6 matches. He has not been defeated since the All England tournament in mid-March. He also won the Asian Championships and the All England back-to-back. This positive performance trend is a valuable asset for the Paris 2024 Olympics.

"Thank God that being behind 0-2 is not easy. I remember the moment in the Thomas Cup two years ago when I was in the same position but I didn't want to be the determinant of defeat. I wanted to inspire my friends so I hope Bagas/Fikri's spirit can multiply again, hopefully they can gain points. Same goes for Chico," said Jonatan after the match ended.