Viktor Axelsen’s long-awaited comeback didn’t unfold as hoped but the Danish star showed true sportsmanship in defeat, praising opponent Kodai Naraoka after exiting LI-NING Hong Kong Open 2025 in the first round.

Playing his first competitive match in six months following back surgery, Axelsen could not be his usual self on court and fell 21-15 21-7 in 37 minutes. The 31-year-old’s lead-up to the tournament had already been hampered by fever the previous week.

“It was nice to get out there again but I wish I enjoyed it more,” said a visibly emotional Axelsen post- match. “There’s been a lot of unfortunate events – getting sick last week, not being able to practice and still trying to push through.

“I set very high standards for myself so performing at what I’d consider a relatively low level is hard to accept. It is what it is – this is part of an athlete’s journey.”

Despite the disappointment, Axelsen displayed the humility of a great champion, acknowledging Naraoka’s superior performance. It marked his first loss to the Japanese shuttler in seven encounters.

“It was a tough mountain to climb today but all credit to Kodai. He played way better than me.”

Axelsen is set to return next week at LI-NING China Masters 2025, where the two-time Olympic champion is drawn against local youngster Wang Zheng Xing.

A silver lining from today?

“I don’t have much pain in my back. That’s a positive.”

→ Results (Day 2)

→ Order of play (Day 3)