Axelsen’s classy final win shows he’s still the man to beat

Can’t blunt his axe: Viktor Axelsen celebrating after outclassing Kodai Naraoka in the men’s singles final.

DENMARK’s singles star Viktor Axelsen served a strong reminder to his rivals that he is set to be untouchable again this season after smashing his way to the Malaysian Open title.

The world No. 1 started 2023 just like he ended last year when he put up a classy and commanding show against a jaded Kodai Naraoka of Japan, cruising to a 21-6, 21-15 win in the final at the Axiata Arena yesterday.