Olympic Champions Shine in India Open 2025
Olympic champions Viktor Axelsen and An Se-young claimed emphatic victories at the India Open Super 750 badminton tournament in New Delhi, reaffirming their dominance on the global stage.
Axelsen Secures Third India Open Title
Viktor Axelsen, a two-time world champion, overcame Hong Kong’s Lee Cheuk Yiu in a commanding 21-16, 21-8 win. With this victory, Axelsen secured his third India Open title, making it his sixth final appearance in the tournament’s history.
“Winning this title is incredibly special. It marks a turning point for me, restoring my motivation and confidence,” said Axelsen.
Despite a shaky start, trailing 3-6 in the opening game, the Danish star found his rhythm and dictated the pace. His aggressive smashes and flawless defensive play left Lee struggling to gain an upper hand.
An Se-young Dominates Women’s Final
Korea’s An Se-young displayed her brilliance yet again, effortlessly defeating Thailand’s Pornpawee Chochuwong 21-12, 21-9 to clinch her second India Open crown. Having reached the finals in 2023, her triumph was a testament to her growing dominance in women’s badminton.
Doubles Matches Deliver Thrilling Encounters
- Men’s Doubles: Malaysia’s Goh Sze Fei and Nur Izzuddin secured victory against South Korea’s Kim Won Ho and Seo Seung Jae in a gripping 21-15, 13-21, 21-16 encounter.
- Women’s Doubles: Japan’s Arisa Igarashi and Ayako Sakuramoto triumphed over South Korea’s Kim Hye Jeong and Kong Hee Young with a scoreline of 21-15, 21-13.
- Mixed Doubles: China’s Jiang Zhen Bang and Wei Ya Xin outplayed the French duo of Thom Gicquel and Delphine Delrue in a 21-18, 21-17 win.
Lee’s Heartbreak Continues
Lee Cheuk Yiu, who finished runner-up in the previous edition, once again fell short of the title. Despite a promising start, he struggled to counter Axelsen’s dominance, particularly in the second game, where Axelsen’s relentless attack dismantled Lee’s defense.
“Reaching the final again is an achievement, but I need to find ways to close the gap,” Lee reflected.
Looking Ahead
With the India Open concluding on a high note, all eyes now turn to the upcoming tournaments where these champions will look to extend their dominance. Axelsen and An Se-young’s triumphs set the stage for an exciting badminton season ahead.
