KUALA LUMPUR: World No. 22 Ng Eain Yow finally woke up from his slumber to reach the final of the German Open on Saturday.
Following a series of unimpressive results this year, the Malaysian caused a major upset by battling past top seed and world No. 11 Joel Makin of Wales 13-11, 11-8, 6-11, 11-8 in the semi-finals.
It was Eain Yow's first win over Makin in seven encounters.
The 26-year-old Eain Yow is set to regain his spot in the top 20 after the win.
The fourth-seeded Eain Yow will take on world No. 34 Dimitri Steinmann in the final later today.
The Swiss booked his place after overcoming world No. 19 Mohamed El Sherbini of Egypt 11-8, 11-4, 11-1 in 40 minutes.
Squash Racquets Association of Malaysia (SRAM) director Major (Rtd) S. Maniam said Eain Yow showed maturity and perseverance to beat Makin after six straight defeats against his Welsh opponent.
"Eain Yow is hardworking and can beat any top player on his day," said Maniam.
"We hope he will now overcome that mental block and beat more top-ranked players."
Asked about Eain Yow's chances in the final, Maniam said: "On paper, the KL-born holds the advantage.
"However, Steinmann is a tough opponent, who doesn't give up so easily. I believe Eain Yow is feeling confident, and he just needs to continue his winning momentum," said Maniam.
