Mia Blichfeldt has pulled off something she hasn’t managed in seven years. Defeat Chen Yu Fei.

“I don’t believe it, it’s still sinking in,” Blichfeldt exclaimed after her 21-9 21-17 VICTOR Denmark Open 2025 Round of 16 win. It sealed a second quarterfinal spot on home soil, the last one coming in 2020.

The emotional resonance of winning at home could not be overstated in her celebration. Playing before Danish people and her family provided extra motivation, though she approached the match with remarkable calm. This composure proved decisive against the Tokyo 2020 Olympic champion.

Her head-to-head record against Chen has historically favoured the Chinese star (10-1) but Blichfeldt remained mostly competitive throughout their encounters. What changed today was not just tactical execution but a fundamental shift in the Dane’s mental approach.

“Every time I go on court, I put a little layer on to find an extra percentage,” she noted. “I’m not stressing or anything. I’m just really in the process and enjoying being on court.”

This shift stems directly from the world No.21’s move about a year ago to the Popov brothers’ base in the south of France, where she practices alongside boyfriend Toma Junior. The change from a larger training environment to a more individualised setup initially seemed counterintuitive for a player who historically thrived in bigger groups. She has since adjusted.

“The individual focus is good,” Blichfeldt said. “It’s my path, it’s my way.”

Her game has noticeably improved since that transition. Against Chen, Blichfeldt executed her gameplan with precision, showcasing the controlled aggression her opponent struggled to counter. Chen acknowledged the quality on display.

“I couldn’t follow her pace. Her shots were aggressive and she played with patience. My mentality wasn’t strong and I had some trouble with that,” said the world No.5.

Interestingly, Blichfeldt feels Chen helps her put on her strongest performances.

“She brings the best out of me,” she noted to her coach before the match. Throughout their extensive history, the 28-year-old has matched Chen’s pace consistently, refusing to be overwhelmed by the Chinese shuttler’s intensity.

And today, seven years of near misses were finally dispelled.