An incredible tournament by Badminton Denmark has come to an end this year. Many Europeans showcased their talents throughout the event, with standout performances from Ben Lane/Sean Vendy, Delphine Delrue/Thom Gicquel, Alex Lanier, and Kim Astrup/Anders Skaarup. However, one player shone brighter than the rest: Anders Antonsen, who claimed victory at the Denmark Open for the second time.
Feng Yan Zhe/Huang Dong Ping vs. Jiang Zhen Bang/Wei Ya Xin
A strong start from Jiang/Wei saw them ahead 6-0 and 11-2. Huang/Feng fought back but never got close. The first set ended 21-15. The second set was more evenly matched, but Huang/Feng always seemed in control, winning it 21-18. They continued strong at the start of the third set, leading 11-8. The third set never became truly exciting, and Huang and Feng won 21-17, securing the Denmark Open title for the second consecutive year.
An Se Young vs. Wang Zhi Yi
A brilliant display in the first set saw Wang leading throughout, not giving An any chance to catch up. Wang Zhi Yi played one of the finest women's singles matches I have seen in a long time, winning decisively without allowing An Se Young any openings. Wang Zhi Yi won the final 21-10, 21-12.
Liu Sheng Shu/Tan Ning vs. Rin Iwanaga/Kie Nakanishi
Japanese players Iwanaga and Nakanishi displayed a controlled and disciplined women’s doubles performance, winning in two sets with scores of 21-18, 21-14. A key factor in their victory was an outstanding defensive and counter-attacking approach that proved effective against the otherwise strong Chinese pair. Today’s win marks the biggest tournament victory in the careers of the two Japanese women.
Anders Antonsen vs. Koki Watanabe
Anders Antonsen was in full control of the match tempo, with the outcome of the first set never in doubt. Antonsen won the first set 21-15. He continued to dictate the second set on his terms, winning the match 21-16.
Kim Astrup/Anders Skaarup Rasmussen
An entirely even contest in the first set saw momentum swing back and forth. Astrup and Skaarup appeared tactically well-prepared for the Chinese pair's fast and offensive style. However, at 17-14 in favor of the Danes, the Chinese regained momentum and quickly took over. The Chinese pair won the first set 21-18. The second set mirrored the first, with the Chinese proving to be the more clinical at the end, winning the match 21-18, 21-17. A commendable tournament from Kim Astrup and Anders Skaarup.
We close an amazing week for athletes and fans alike, marked by significant European success and memorable moments. Although the European leg of the World Tour takes a brief pause next week, the action continues at the Hylo Open 2024, taking place from Tuesday 29 October to Sunday, 3 November. Stay tuned!