For the first time in 7 years, Nomen did it again. Our national badminton hero Linda Vermont managed to reclaim the title of UBN Badminton Champion in the Women Singles category after 7 years. After taking a break and having a daughter since the last time she played, this was her first official tournament back, and what a performance.
The comeback
In 2014, after losing the UBN Championship finals, Linda decided to take a break from badminton to focus on her personal life. During that time she expanded her family with a daughter. But this year she decided it was time to pick the racket back up again. After months of training it became clear that the itch never left. In no time Linda was back in peak form.
Almost couldn’t make it
Linda had been training for a couple months when she decided she would be fit enough to participate in the UBN Badminton Championship. With only 2 months before the championship took place, she suffered a shoulder injury. It didn’t look good at first and doctors doubted that she would be able to participate in the tournament. With special recovery treatment and specific training she got back in top form right in time for the big moment.
A close finale
After losing the first set in the final against Miriam, it didn’t look good. The first game ended at 21-13 for Miriam. It proved not to be easy to find the strength to make a comeback from there. After a tough battle Linda ended up winning the second game with a score of 20-22, cutting it close to say the least. The third and final set was badminton of the highest level. With both sides giving it their absolute best, the spectators were treated to a true spectacle. In the end it was Linda who came out on top, ending the match 21-18. Making Linda the UBN Women Badminton champion for her fourth time. What an achievement after taking a 7-year break.
- Jens Verstraete -