Anders Antonsen stuns home favourite Kunlavut Vitidsarn to clinch Thailand Open title
Bangkok, May 17
Anders Antonsen produced a sensational comeback from a game down to upset home favourite Kunlavut Vitidsarn 9-21, 24-22, 21-18 and clinch the 2026 Thailand Open title in Bangkok on Sunday.
Antonsen made amends for last year's final, in which Vitidsarn had beaten the Dane in another three-game thriller, as per Olympics.com.
After advancing to Sunday's final following reigning world champion Shi Yuqi's withdrawal from their semi-final clash, Anders Antonsen endured a shaky start at Bangkok's Nimibutr Stadium.
The world No. 3 was locked at 5-5 early in the opening game, but as Kunlavut Vitidsarn began dictating the rallies with relentless precision, the home favourite surged ahead to take the opener comfortably after a fiercely contested battle.
With the pressure mounting, Anders Antonsen finally rediscovered his rhythm in the second game before expertly moving Olympic silver medallist Kunlavut Vitidsarn around the court in the decider to seal his maiden Thailand Open crown.
The hard-fought victory, achieved after one hour and 37 minutes of intense battle, marked Antonsen's second title of the year and his eighth win over Vitidsarn in their 12 career meetings.
"It feels so incredible. I'm lost for words right now. I don't really believe it, because it was looking very bad in that third game, and also in the second, actually, (where) I was down most of the time. So, yeah, I'm amazed. I can't believe it. I'm so happy, so thrilled. Amazing experience in there once again. Last year was insane as well, but to get the win this year feels incredible," said Antonsen as per the Badminton World Federation website.
— ANI
Reader Comments
As an Indian badminton fan, I love watching these high-quality matches. Beating the defending champion in his own backyard is a special achievement. Shi Yuqi's withdrawal also changed the dynamics - Antonsen got extra rest.
Kunlavut is a class player but he needs to handle pressure better in big finals. The second game at 22-24 was where he lost the match. Antonsen's experience showed - that's what separates good from great players.
8-12 head-to-head now favors Antonsen! 🏸 The Denmark vs Thailand rivalry in badminton is always exciting. With Shi Yuqi, Axelsen and now Antonsen all playing well, men's singles is getting very competitive for next Olympics.
Impressive composure from Antonsen after losing the first game 9-21. Many players would have folded mentally. But winning 24-22 in the second and then taking the decider shows champion character. India's young players should study this match.
Great tournament overall! Thailand Open always produces entertaining matches. Kunlavut gave his best but Antonsen was just better on the day. Indian fans can learn from how both players construct their rallies.
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