Zhi Yi prepares for showdown against near-invincible Se Young [WATCH]

KUALA LUMPUR: World No. 2 Wang Zhi Yi knows that breaking down South Korea's world No. 1 An Se Young requires precision, patience and near-perfect execution, and the Chinese shuttler is preparing herself for exactly that challenge in tomorrow's Malaysia Open final.

Zhi Yi booked her place in the title match after a composed 21-16, 21-15 win over India's world No. 18 P. V. Sindhu in the semi-final at Axiata Arena today, before turning her attention to the most complete player on the women's singles circuit.

"She is a very comprehensive opponent with very few loopholes," Zhi Yi told the media when asked about Se Young.

"To break through her game, you need to keep looking for opportunities and handle the details better."

Se Young advanced to the final without taking to the court after China's world No. 4 Chen Yu Fei conceded a walkover, setting up a high-profile showdown between the world's best two women's singles players.

Against Sindhu, Zhi Yi's strength lay in her steadiness, particularly in the second game when the Indian briefly held the upper hand in the early and middle stages.

"I think I was more stable today," Zhi Yi said after her win.

"In the second game, she was leading at the beginning and in the middle, but towards the end she made some errors. I didn't think too much and focused on my own tactics."

That ability to remain calm and disciplined has underpinned Zhi Yi's run in Kuala Lumpur, even as the tournament schedule tested her adaptability with both early and late match slots.

"All athletes have to adapt to the match times," she said. "There are different rhythms and habits for early sessions and late sessions. Adapting is what a player should do."

Zhi Yi also played down the disappointment over the absence of a potential all-Chinese clash following Yu Fei's withdrawal, instead stressing the importance of player welfare on a demanding tour.

"There are many uncertain factors during a competition," she said. "For athletes, maintaining physical health is the most important thing."

Though Se Young holds a 16-4 head-to-head record against Zhi Yi, the Chinese shuttler is relishing the challenge.

"I will prepare thoroughly and I'm really looking forward to playing her," Zhi Yi said.