National sport
Kevin Cordón is the new Pan American badminton champion and sets his sights on Paris 2024
The Teodoro Palacios Flores gym witnessed the feat of Kevin Cordón, who became Pan-American badminton champion this Saturday, after beating the Salvadoran Uriel Francisco Canjura, ensuring his place at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.
Kevin Cordón, known as the best racket in America, celebrates his victory at the Yonex Guatemala 2024 International Pan American Championship and his virtual qualification for the Olympic Games. (Free Press Photo: Erick Ávila)
The intensity of the confrontation was felt from the beginning on the floor of the stage located in Guatemala City. Cordón, the local favorite, sought to be crowned at home, in front of his audience, on the stage of zone 5. With determination, he faced a tough rival in Canjura, who had surprised by beating the Canadian Brian Yang, considered the first seed of the tournament.
The first set represented a challenge for Cordón, as Canjura managed to win with a score of 21/14. However, the Guatemalan athlete was able to overcome in the next two sets, showing his skill and determination to finally win the victory and the title of 2024 Pan American badminton champion in Guatemala.
The road to glory was not easy for Cordón, who had to overcome several obstacles on his way to the final. From his first confrontation against compatriot Diego Trujillo Marrero, to the disputed quarterfinal match against the Peruvian Víctor Lai, each victory was one more step towards his goal.
Cordón’s victory not only meant a proud moment for Guatemala to see its team play at home, but also an opportunity for all participants to accumulate points in the ranking. Since, with this last stop, athletes have the possibility of improving their position and aspiring to future competitions.
For Guatemala, Kevin Cordón’s qualification for his third Olympic Games represents a cause for great emotion. Currently positioned 40th in the world ranking, his presence in Paris 2024 is practically assured.
Now, we just have to wait for official confirmation from the International Federation so that Cordón’s participation in the Paris 2024 Olympic Games becomes a reality. Without a doubt, his return to the Olympic scene promises to be another exciting chapter in the Zacapaneco’s outstanding sports career.
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