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The 2024 BWF Hong Kong Open witnessed a thrilling day of action on Friday, September 13th, as the men’s singles semi-finalists were determined. Leading the charge was a resurgent Indonesian duo – defending champion Jonatan Christie and Tokyo 2020 bronze medalist Anthony Sinisuka Ginting – joined by the formidable Danish star Viktor Axelsen.
Christie, aiming for back-to-back titles, faced a stern test in fifth-seeded Japanese player Naraoka Kodai. The match went down to the wire, with Christie dropping the second set after Naraoka took control. However, the Indonesian dug deep and displayed his champion spirit, clinching the decider 21-16, 12-21, 21-15, to advance to the semi-finals. This sets him up for a clash with unseeded Chinese shuttler Lei Lan Xi, who aims to spoil Christie’s title defense on Saturday.
Meanwhile, Ginting showcased his battling qualities against home favorite Jason Gunawan. Similar to Christie, he secured the first and third sets (21-17, 21-18) but encountered resistance from Gunawan in the second (14-21). Ginting’s experience ultimately proved decisive, paving the way for a mouthwatering semi-final encounter against the Danish powerhouse, Viktor Axelsen.
Axelsen, the two-time Olympic champion, enjoyed a smoother ride compared to his Indonesian counterparts. He dismantled Chinese Taipei’s Chou Tien Chen in straight sets (21-15, 21-14), showcasing his dominance and hunger for a third title in 2024. Having already secured the Malaysia Masters and defended his Olympic crown in Paris, Axelsen seeks to add the Hong Kong Open trophy to his impressive haul.
The women’s singles also witnessed a captivating battle, with China’s Han Yue battling back from a set down to defeat Japan’s fifth-seeded Aya Ohori (17-21, 21-9, 21-15). Unfortunately, the article doesn’t delve into the other women’s semi-finalist.
Fans across the globe can witness the electrifying semi-finals and the exhilarating final of the 2024 Hong Kong Open live on Olympics.com, although regional restrictions may apply.
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