KUALA LUMPUR – World number one Viktor Axelsen stands poised to etch yet another milestone in his illustrious career by securing a spot in tomorrow's men’s singles final at the Malaysia Masters.
Axelsen encountered little resistance as he outclassed China's Lu Guangzu in today's semi-final, securing a 21-6, 21-13 victory in a mere 37 minutes.
The win propels Axelsen one step closer to breaking his title drought this year, and he pins his hopes on the Axiata Arena to be the venue for this breakthrough moment.
Awaiting Axelsen in the final is the winner of the semi-final between Malaysian sensation Lee Zii Jia and Hong Kong's Angus Ng.
"I always enjoy playing here at the Axiata Arena, and I remember winning the Malaysia Masters for the first time in 2018.
"The match happened so fast for me, and on the bus ride home, I asked myself, how on earth am I going to reach this (Datuk Lee Chong Wei’s) level?
"Surely, he has played remarkably well here, but I've also won various titles here, both in the Malaysia Open and Masters. I've learned a lot here, and I've also achieved many victories in this arena," said Axelsen.
Last year, the Danish champion made history by becoming the first European men’s singles player to win the Malaysia Open twice in a row.
Should he emerge victorious in tomorrow's match, it will mark his second Malaysia Masters title, following his triumph in 2018.
Additionally, he would become the first European men's singles player to achieve this feat since the tournament's inception in 2009.
"To be honest, I never really think about records. Every day, I just want to do my best, and I am very humble about all my achievements.
"I am content with where I am, and I am very happy to advance to the final. But playing badminton without pain in front of thousands of spectators here is my dream," he added. – May 25, 2024
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