Axelsen envious of great home support Zii Jia received

Axelsen captured his first title of the year after a 21-6, 20-22, 21-13 victory over the Malaysian, but his victory came with its own set of challenges as thousands of Malaysians raised the roof each time Lee won a point.

“Zii Jia put me under a lot of pressure in the second game. Together with the thousands of fans here, I couldn’t hear myself think and I definitely couldn’t hear my coach.

“It’s not easy to play here with the entire Malaysia against you. It was an amazing experience to play here, I envy Zii Jia and the Malaysian players.

It’s unique support and a great atmosphere, I couldn’t be happier with my victory,” said Axelsen.

The world number one also commended Lee for his efforts, while acknowledging the Malaysian had come into the final to feature in his 10th match in 14 days.

“Physically he was a little tired, but I thought he played well overall. I have no idea if he is back to his best, but it is awesome to have him playing this well,” Axelsen added.

The reigning Olympic champion seems eager to continue his fine form as he posted a picture of him in a gym in Singapore early Monday, which indicates he will feature in the Super 750 event which begins on Tuesday.

Axelsen will face India’s Lakshya Sen in the Singapore Open first round.

Lee is also scheduled to play against Anthony Ginting, and on Sunday he told reporters there were no indications that he was going to withdraw for a much-needed rest.