Shaky Axelsen through to badminton World Tour Finals decider

BANGKOK: A visibly nervous Viktor Axelsen was pushed to the brink Saturday (Dec 10) but the world number one prevailed in a marathon semi-final against Japanese young gun Kodai Naraoka at the season-ending badminton World Tour Finals in Bangkok.

The Badminton World Federation shifted its US$1.5 million flagship event to the Thai capital's Nimibutr Arena after original host China dropped the tournament due to its tough COVID-19 restrictions.

Axelsen's confidence appeared dented following a surprise loss a day ago to India's HS Prannoy - only his third defeat this year.

Earlier this week, the Olympic champion had finished off Naraoka in 33 minutes at the group stage, but the 14th-ranked Japanese produced a lethal attack Saturday and looked a serious contender as the pair duelled for one hour and 23 minutes.

It was a battle of nerves in the first game. Axelsen was ahead by two at the interval but his opponent stepped up the pace to win 23-21 on a fourth game point.

The 28-year-old Dane regrouped to claim the second 21-19 but was under constant pressure from Naraoka's energetic attack.

There were epic rallies and strong net play from Naraoka in the decider but he did not have the stamina to close out the match. Axelsen found seven match-point opportunities, eventually winning the tie-breaker 21-18.

Axelsen characterised the encounter as his most testing in the year.

"I respect Kodai a lot, he's an up-and-coming player. He has a really bright future," Axelsen said.

Naraoka told reporters he opted for low play to avoid Axelsen's usual powerful smash winners.

Axelsen meets Indonesian star Anthony Ginting in Sunday's final.

Earlier, Ginting outclassed compatriot Jonatan Christie in a high-paced and high-intensity clash 21-15, 11-21, 21-18.