NEW DELHI — Japan claimed its maiden Thomas Cup title Sunday, edging out five-time champion Malaysia 3-2 in the final of men's team event. World No. 1 Lee Chong-Wei salvaged personal reputation beating Kenichi Tago 21-12, 21-16 in 45 minutes before Japan won the next two contests to surge ahead. Kenichi Hayakawa and Hiroyuki Endo brought Japan, who stunned China in the semifinal, back into contention when they eked out a 12-21, 21-17, 21-19 victory over the Tan Boon Heong-Hoon Thien How pair in 76 minutes. Kento Momota then downed Chong Wei Feng 21-15, 21-17 to put Japan ahead but Malaysia equalized with Goh V Shem and Tan Wee Kiong claiming the second doubles 19-21, 21-17, 21-12. In the all-important third singles, Takuma Ueda beat Daren Liew 21-12, 18-21, 21-17 to deny Malaysia what could have been their first Thomas Cup title since 1992. “I was under pressure before the start of the game but... was determined to win. I have not experienced anything like this before,” Ueda said. — Reuters
