It's time for the at this year's Denmark Open, and after a star-studded day, Europe is represented in the finals by Danish men's doubles pair Kim Astrup and Anders Skaarup, as well as men's singles player Anders Antonsen.
Unfortunately, it was also a day when an injured Gregoria Mariska Tunjung had to withdraw at 12-12 in the second set of her semifinal against South Korea's An Se Young. We wish Tunjung a speedy recovery.
In the semifinals, Kim Astrup and Anders Skaarup faced the winners of Denmark Open 2022, Alfian and Ardianto. The Danes were trailing for most of the first set but managed a remarkable comeback, coming back from 16-9 down to win the set 22-20. Astrup commented, "We stepped up, and we didn't give up at any time."
The second set was tightly contested, with both pairs trading points throughout. However, the Indonesians pulled ahead towards the end and won the set 21-18. The Danes came out strong in the third set, playing flawlessly with great quality, leading 11-5 at the break. They maintained their momentum after the break and secured the match with a decisive 21-11 in the third set.
Anders Antonsen also progressed to the finals on Saturday, defeating Japan's Kenta Nishimoto 21-15, 21-14. Antonsen got off to a great start, quickly leading 11-5. At 15-8, Nishimoto changed tactics, playing more defensively and trying to make the match physically demanding. While he found some success for a short period, he never got close.
A well-performing Antonsen took the first set 21-15. The second set mirrored the first, with Antonsen appearing comfortable and in control throughout, winning 21-14. After the match, he stated, "In the end, some nerves started to creep in a little bit, but other than that, I felt in control."
Alex Lanier played a close first set against Japan's Watanabe, who maintained a lead of 1-3 points throughout. Unfortunately, Lanier couldn't close the gap, and Watanabe won the set 21-16. Lanier, clearly fatigued, fought hard for a spot in his second Super 750 final in a few months, but he ultimately fell short, losing 21-16, 21-13.
Lanier is overall happy with his current form and how he has showcased his game "It could have been different scenario if I was a bit mere fresh, this match was too much for me" "In general it has been a great week, i am just a little sad about this match"
We get to see Alex Lanier in action again in two weeks at Hylo Open in Germany.
Live updates from the finals on Sunday can be followed on Badminton Europe's social media channels.