In a remarkable turn of events at the Badminton World Federation (BWF) China Open in Changzhou, Jiangsu Province, two-time Olympic champion Viktor Axelsen of Denmark was stunned by China's Lei Lanxi in the opening round.
Lei, ranked 28th globally, showcased fearless determination as he took the first game 21-19 against the world number two Axelsen, who has claimed back-to-back Olympic golds in Tokyo and Paris.
Despite Axelsen's impressive comeback in the second game, winning 21-17 with an exquisite drop shot, Lei ramped up his aggression in the deciding game. The 26-year-old secured his first victory over Axelsen with a powerful smash, ending the match 21-16.
Following his victory, Lei is set to face Japan's Kenta Nishimoto in the second round, promising more exciting badminton action for fans.
In other matches, Li Shifeng faced a tough defeat against Chou, adding to the day's intense competition.
Reference(s):
BWF China Open: Lei Lanxi stuns Axelsen, Li Shifeng loses to Chou
cgtn.com
