Lei Lan Xi will provide the unexpected opposition to world No.2 Viktor Axelsen in the LI-NING Hong Kong Open 2024 final after surprising defending champion Jonatan Christie 21-14 12-21 21-17.

Lei, whose attacking approach left Christie breathless at times, was elated to qualify for his first Super 500 final. It’s also only his second on the HSBC BWF World Tour after June’s US Open, where he was runner-up.

“I’m delighted with my efforts against the reigning champion. I’m excited to play the final,” said the unseeded Lei, also the first Chinese men’s singles finalist at the tournament after Chen Long lost to Lee Chong Wei in 2017.

“I think I was more decisive and aggressive in the rallies and that was key to winning. I feel like I’m returning to my best form. This gives me courage and confidence to go forward.”

Lei sees the title bout against two-time Olympic gold medallist Axelsen, who beat Christie’s countryman Anthony Sinisuka Ginting 21-9 21-19, as an opportunity to gain more experience.

“He has no weaknesses. He’s just so strong in all areas,” said the world No.33. “I will give my 100 per cent and hopefully that’s enough. Regardless of the result, I’ll learn from (playing) him.”

→ Results (Semifinals)

→ Order of play (Finals)

WHAT OTHERS SAID

“They put us under a lot of pressure, especially in the second game but we are happy we pulled through. There’s still one match left so we must stay focused and grounded.” – Thinaah Muralitharan

“We will miss this tournament a lot. The atmosphere was fantastic and we really wanted to continue to enjoy it.” – Tang Chun Man after he and Tse Ying Suet played their last Hong Kong Open match

“I haven’t been able to practice as much as I wanted to post Olympics, but I’m happy with the way I’ve come back. To be in the final here after the Olympics is definitely not easy.” – Axelsen