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 defeated Thailand’s Pornpawee Chochuwong 21-12, 21-9 to win her second India Open title. 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 strong start, Lee struggled against Axelsen’s dominance, especially in the second game, where Axelsen’s attack overpowered him.
“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 strongly, focus moves to upcoming tournaments where champions seek to maintain their dominance. Axelsen and An Se-young’s triumphs set the stage for an exciting badminton season ahead.
