Tuesday, 24 Dec 2024

News | BWF World Tour Finals

Viktor Axelsen Set to Showcase Skills in Opening Match at YONEX All England

Introduction

In honor of its 125th year, the YONEX All England is sporting a fresh new look, with light grey courts replacing the traditional green. The excitement surrounding the opening day of performances is at an all-time high, especially with Danish star Viktor Axelsen taking on his familiar rival Kidambi Srikanth.

Kidambi Srikanth

Axelsen’s Comeback

Axelsen, known for his consistent victories, has had a less than ideal start to the year due to a foot injury. Despite playing only two events, the PETRONAS Malaysia Open and the YONEX French Open, where he reached the semifinals and the second round respectively, Axelsen is determined to prove himself at the All England. As the current world No.1, he boasts an impressive track record at the tournament, having won two out of four finals in the last five years.

Kidambi Srikanth, A Worthy Opponent

While Kidambi Srikanth has not defeated Axelsen in over six years, the Indian player showed great form in the recent French Open. Motivated to take down the world’s best player on one of the badminton world’s biggest stages, Kidambi is expected to provide a challenging opening round for Axelsen.

Defending Champion Li Shi Feng in Action

The defending champion, Li Shi Feng, famous for his celebratory cartwheel after last year’s final win, will also be competing today. As the third seed, he will face Toma Junior Popov, adding to the anticipation of the tournament.

Tham Khảo Thêm:  BWF News

Fikri and Maulana after winning the title in 2022.

Other Exciting Matches

  • Muhammad Shohibul Fikri and Bagas Maulana, the men’s doubles winners in 2023, will be facing Alexander Dunn and Adam Hall in a highly anticipated match. Their performance will be crucial in securing a spot in the Race to Paris, alongside higher-ranked compatriots Fajar Alfian and Muhammad Rian Ardianto.

  • As the qualification window for the Olympics is closing, many players and pairs will be showcasing their skills at the All England to boost their chances. Han Yue, competing for China’s second spot in women’s singles, faces a tough opponent in Supanida Katethong.

  • Christo Popov, surpassing his brother Toma Junior with his recent YONEX German Open victory, will take on Lee Cheuk Yiu, the runner-up at the YONEX-SUNRISE India Open.

  • Pusarla V Sindhu, showing signs of returning to her best form after last year’s injury troubles, begins her campaign against Yvonne Li in the women’s singles category.

  • Treesa Jolly and Gayatri Gopichand Pullela, with their impressive record at the All England, face a challenging opening match against Apriyani Rahayu and Siti Fadia Silva Ramadhanti.

FAQs

FAQs can be found before the concluding heading, “Conclusion.”

Conclusion

The 125th YONEX All England promises to be a thrilling tournament, with top players from around the world showcasing their skills on the new light grey courts. Stay tuned for more updates and exhilarating badminton action at the Carnegiecentre website.