Hong Kong Open: ‘All Credit to Kodai’
Viktor Axelsen’s long-awaited comeback didn’t unfold as hoped but the Danish star showed true sportsmanship in defeat, praising opponent Kodai Naraoka after exiting LI-NING Hong Kong Open 2025 in the first round.
· PREM KUMAR
Playing his first competitive match in six months following back surgery, Axelsen could not be his usual self on court and fell 21-15 21-7 in 37 minutes. The 31-year-old’s lead-up to the tournament had already been hampered by fever the previous week.
“It was nice to get out there again but I wish I enjoyed it more,” said a visibly emotional Axelsen post- match. “There’s been a lot of unfortunate events – getting sick last week, not being able to practice and still trying to push through.
“I set very high standards for myself so performing at what I’d consider a relatively low level is hard to accept. It is what it is – this is part of an athlete’s journey.”