All England: Axelsen Seeks Year’s First Title
Viktor Axelsen will be the star act of the opening day of the 125th year of the YONEX All England when he takes on familiar rival Kidambi Srikanth.
· DEV SUKUMAR
In celebration of its 125th year, the All England sports a new look this year, with light grey courts instead of the traditional green, and that will add to the interest around the opening day’s performances.
Axelsen has been on top of the podium so often in recent years that it’s unusual for him to be without a title in March. But due to a foot injury, the Dane has played only two events – the Malaysia Open and last week’s French Open – where he made the semifinals and the second round respectively. The world No.1 would have high expectations of himself here, for he has a stellar record at the All England, winning two of four finals over the last five years.
Kidambi could be a tricky opening round opponent, although the Indian hasn’t beaten the Dane in over six years. Kidambi did look in good touch last week in France, and there will be no bigger motivation than attempting a takedown of the world’s best player on one of the world’s biggest stages.