Arctic Open: ‘Welcome Back’, Antonsen Tells Lee Post-Battle
Anders Antonsen had to dig deep to end Lee Zii Jia’s run at CLASH OF CLANS Arctic Open 2026, but the Dane’s victory came with a heartfelt message for his close friend.
· BWF STAFF
Antonsen prevailed 21-11 15-21 21-16 in a 78-minute encounter, overcoming a second-game wobble to set up the men’s singles final against Yushi Tanaka, who earlier secured his place with a 21-14 11-21 21-16 victory over compatriot Koki Watanabe.
“It was a tricky one, an emotional rollercoaster ride,” Antonsen said. “I played well in the first game. In the second, it frustrated me that all of a sudden that good feeling just went away.”
The turning point came before the decider, when Antonsen’s coach delivered a blunt message.