Denmark’s Viktor Axelsen showcased his badminton prowess by successfully defending his men’s singles title in a thrilling final against Kunlavut Vitidsarn of Thailand. The No. 2 seed, Axelsen, dominated the match from start to finish, clinching victory with impressive scores of 21-11 in both games.
Axelsen's remarkable achievement adds another feather to his cap, making him a two-time Olympic champion in addition to his two World Championship titles. The crowd erupted in chants of “Viktor, Viktor” at the La Chapelle Arena as he joined the elite ranks of players who have managed to defend their titles, a feat previously accomplished only by China’s Lin Dan in 2008 and 2012.
Vitidsarn, who had caused a major upset by defeating the top seed Shi Yuqi in the quarterfinals, had to settle for the silver medal. Meanwhile, Lee Zii Jia of Malaysia secured the bronze medal in the men’s singles badminton event.