SINGAPORE OPEN 2011 R16 – Viktorious!

Early spectators on day 3 of the Li-Ning Singapore Super Series were treated to a spectacular performance by Viktor Axelsen, which saw him demolish world number 9 Bao Chunlai in two straight games.

By Pearlyn Kwang, live from Singapore. Photos (live): Badmintonphoto

There was something symbolic about this match between a reigning and a former World Junior Champion, from two countries which had been facing each other a few weeks ago for the title of best nation of the world during the Double Star BWF Sudirman Cup in Qingdao.

Unfazed by Bao holding two game points in the first game, the 17-year-old Dane fought back to level the score and eventually nicked the game 23-21. The intensity of the second game, however, was a stark difference from the first, with the Chinese visibly having difficulty coping with Axelsen’s spirited play. Axelsen sealed the game (and match) 21-15. It was just not to be for Bao, as his younger opponent prematurely halted his quest for another title in Singapore. Viktor once again had both his coaches on the chair, which were shouting advice towards the end of the game and they were the first ones to congratulate the teenager after his stunning performance.

Bao was gracious in his loss though, stating in a post-match interview, “There is no special reason why I lost. My performance was just so-so, but he played really well today.  Of course, there were some controversial calls which no doubt influenced my game, but the fact is that he was just the better player today.”

“My idol since I was 10!”

It was already a match too good to be true for the World Junior Champion, being able to play opposite a shuttler he has been idolizing for the past 7 years, least to say to emerge triumphant from the tie. “I was so excited about the game that I couldn’t sleep yesterday. I really looked forward to playing a big-named player like Bao.”

The rising young star credited his win to his strong mentality again, as he did not falter even when he was trailing. “He is the favourite, and I’m the underdog, so no pressure. I went into the match with confidence, definitely, like always, but it’s still unbelievable. It’s my biggest win so far and I’m really, really happy.”

When asked if this idolatry could possibly played a part in his victory as well, Axelsen said, “I’ve watched many matches of his all these years, so yes, it probably helped [in knowing his game], and I’m new so he doesn’t know what to expect from me. ”

The lanky Dane’s next round opponent will be Wang Zhengming, another recent (2008) World Junior Champion, who stunned former Olympic champion Taufik Hidayat in three games.  “I think I do stand a chance and I will do everything I can tomorrow.”

For other results of the day, click here.