Axelsen showed his class with a victory over Christo Popov in three sets and is now ready for the semi-finals at the Kumamoto Masters in Japan.
The Danish world star had to go through three hard sets before the victory was at home. However, Axelsen showed his class and closed the match with the figures 21-18, 16-21, 21-18.
In the semi-finals, Axelsen will now face Chinese Li Shifeng in a match where the time of the match has not yet been determined.
Popov pushed Axelsen to the limit
The match began with Popov in front with an early lead of 7-2. However, Axelsen quickly found his rhythm and delivered seven points in a row on the challenging downwind side.
However, the French player continued to pressure Axelsen, and the first set was only decided when the Dane closed with five points in a row.
The second set was a challenge for Axelsen, who struggled with both his net game and a number of errors. Despite an early 5-1 lead, Axelsen made eight errors in a row, putting Popov in control.
With the numbers 16-21, Axelsen had to accept that the match should be decided in a third set.
According to TV2 Sport, the dramatic third set was marked by small mistakes that were punished on both sides of the net. However, Axelsen, who has won two Olympic gold medals, showed his routine and took home the victory.
Ready for the next challenge
With the victory over Popov, Axelsen has secured an important place in the semi-finals, where he will meet Li Shifeng.
Axelsen’s experience and composure in pressured situations were decisive in today’s match, and he must build on this strength to advance to the final.
The semi-final will be an important test for the Dane, who currently is number two in the world ranking. A place in the final can strengthen Axelsen’s path towards further titles and further cement his position as one of the very best players in the badminton world.
