Hong Kong Open: Unheralded Lei in Title Duel
Lei Lan Xi will provide the unexpected opposition to world No.2 Viktor Axelsen in the LI-NING Hong Kong Open 2024 final after surprising defending champion Jonatan Christie 21-14 12-21 21-17.
· PREM KUMAR
Lei, whose attacking approach left Christie breathless at times, was elated to qualify for his first Super 500 final. It’s also only his second on the HSBC BWF World Tour after June’s US Open, where he was runner-up.
“I’m delighted with my efforts against the reigning champion. I’m excited to play the final,” said the unseeded Lei, also the first Chinese men’s singles finalist at the tournament after Chen Long lost to Lee Chong Wei in 2017.
“I think I was more decisive and aggressive in the rallies and that was key to winning. I feel like I’m returning to my best form. This gives me courage and confidence to go forward.”