World No. 1 Axelsen storms into Malaysia Open final

Denmark's Viktor Axelsen celebrates after beating Japan's Kanta Tsuneyama in the men singles' semifinals match at the Petronas Malaysia Open 2023 at the Axiata Arena in Bukit Jalil. Axelsen won 21-7, 21-15. - AFP Viktor Axelsen menang 21-7, 21-15. --fotoBERNAMA (2023) HAK CIPTA TERPELIHARA

KUALA LUMPUR, Jan 15, 2023 (AFP): World number one Viktor Axelsen stayed on course to defend his Malaysia Open title as the Dane defeaated Japan's Kanta Tsuneyama 21-7, 21-15 on Saturday night (Jan 14) to reach the 2023 season opener's final.

The 29-year-old made light work of his opponent in the 46-minute match, working the Japanese world number 26 all over the court taking an 11-0 lead in the opening game.