TOKYO – Badminton juggernaut Viktor Axelsen secured the men’s singles crown at the Japan Open final on Sunday. Meanwhile, An Se-young of South Korea won the women’s title, earning her promotion to the world No. 1 spot.
Axelsen, the top-ranked Danish player, defeated Jonatan Christie of Indonesia 21-7, 21-18 in 45 minutes at Tokyo’s Yoyogi Gymnasium. Despite dominating the first game, Axelsen faced a challenge from Christie in the second as he turned a 3-0 lead into an 8-13 deficit with a series of impressive shots.
“It’s always tough playing against Jonatan Christie, but I started the match strong. He seemed a bit tense, especially early on,” Axelsen commented. “Winning titles is never easy. I faced a lot of pressure in the second game, but I’m proud of how I made a comeback.”
Axelsen, 29, expressed his focus on the upcoming world championships in Denmark, scheduled for August.
In the women’s singles final, An defeated He Bingjiao of China 21-15, 21-11 in 44 minutes.
With this victory, An is expected to rise to the world No. 1 spot, replacing Japan’s reigning world champion Akane Yamaguchi, who was eliminated in the quarter-finals.
