China Masters: Lanier Outlasts Axelsen
Alex Lanier emerged victorious in a showdown between European stars at LI-NING China Masters 2025 on Thursday, securing a quarterfinal spot at the expense of Viktor Axelsen.
· PREM KUMAR
Just a day after surviving a gruelling 75-minute battle with Lee Chia Hao, the 20-year-old Frenchman dug deep once again, overcoming Axelsen in 67 minutes, 20-22 21-15 21-13. Trailing 15-9 in the second game, Lanier appeared to be heading out before a stunning 12-point surge tossed the momentum, propelling him into the decider, where he closed out the match with authority.
“Really nice to win like this. I had some tough moments but mentally, I stayed switched on. I fought like crazy so I’m happy,” Lanier said after his triumph over the Danish ace. “My coach kept telling me I was doing the right thing. It was a mental battle and I’m glad I came out on top.”
Lanier’s quarterfinal opponent will be another Dane, Anders Antonsen. The reigning champion advanced beating Ng Ka Long Angus 19-21 21-17 21-12.