Viktor Axelsen has been forced to withdraw on his home turf. Viktor stepped onto the court reportedly affected by a virus and sadly had to pull out of his second-round match against French player Alex Lanier. It was clear that Axelsen was struggling as he tried his best to compete, but after losing the first set 21-19 and falling behind 3-1 in the second, he became so unwell that the tournament doctor had to be called.
After a lengthy pause, Viktor, in consultation with the doctor, heroically decided to continue playing, but he never found his desired rhythm. The audience did their best to support their favorite, but it was in vain. With the score at 11-7, Viktor had no choice but to withdraw. We wish him a speedy recovery.
As a result, Alex Lanier advances in the tournament, where he will face Singapore's Loh Kean Yew in the quarterfinals tomorrow.