Two great net shots by Viktor Axelsen at the very end of an absorbing clash against Lee Cheuk Yiu set the stage for Denmark’s dismissal of Hong Kong China in Group D.
Lee had a glimmer of an upset at 19-18 in the third, but Axelsen played an improbable net winner, and showed the same finesse a point later to earn match point. That was the only opportunity he needed to clinch the opening match.
“I just knew that the front court was really important,” said Axelsen. “I’ve been training a lot at the net game with my coach PK and so I was happy that I was able to play really tight spinning net shots today.”
Lee conceded that Axelsen’s mental strength on those points had seen him through.
“Maybe I can also play those shots, but on important points he’s so strong mentally. I feel happy with the way I played. I trust myself to do what I’m doing, just keep doing the simple things. Just trust, believe in myself, and keep going.”
Lee has troubled Axelsen in the past, and the Dane was aware of the threat, particularly in difficult conditions.
“He’s a hard attacking player, really skilful, and every time you play him it’s really tough, especially in windy conditions. But I managed today to control it and took some chances in the end, and it paid off, and am happy about that. He’s an amazing player. Overall, very dangerous.
“You can see a lot of matches going three games, it’s really tough in these conditions. I’m just happy I got the win.”
Denmark have had a sound start, winning both their opening ties, and Axelsen sounded upbeat about their chances.
“We have a great team, some of the guys were in the team back in 2016 when we won the Thomas Cup, so we have experience, combined with some younger guys as well, so all in all we have a great team, a great team dynamic.”
Next up, to decide the top team from the group, will be a clash against Malaysia.
“It’s going to be exciting against Malaysia. Always a pleasure to play against them, so we look forward to that.
“There’s always pressure, but a little bit extra when you play Thomas Cup. You want to win for the team and even if you lose you want to give some energy to the team, show you are there to win, and I think I have a really good statistic at the Thomas Cup, and I’m always showing that no matter what, I’m always there to do my best for the country and the team and this time’s no different.”