India Open 2024: Kunlavut Vitidsarn Aims to Defend Title as World Champions Axelsen and Antonsen Withdraw
Conor Hudson
Sat Jan 27 2024
Kunlavut Vitidsarn, the reigning world champion from Thailand, is increasing his hopes of defending the title at the India Open 2024. With the sudden withdrawal of Denmark's world number one Viktor Axelsen and Malaysia Open 2024 champion Anders Antonsen, it has opened up more opportunities for Vitidsarn to shine. Starting his campaign against Magnus Johannesen of Denmark on Wednesday, January 17, 2024, the Thai badminton prodigy remains cautious about his chances due to recent form. However, he is determined to give his best and showcase his skills once again on the court.
Expressing his excitement about returning to the India Open as the defending champion, Kunlavut Vitidsarn acknowledges the tough competition that awaits him. Despite his recent inconsistency, he assures fans that he is ready to deliver his best performance and give his all on the court. Currently ranked seventh in the world, Vitidsarn emphasizes his preparation and dedication for this tournament.
When asked if the world champion title adds pressure, Kunlavut Vitidsarn shares his plans to focus more on Masters 500 and 300 events after the India Open to improve his gameplay. He admits feeling slightly more pressure after winning the world championship, but he has been working hard to overcome it by playing more matches and facing different opponents to test his mental strength. Ultimately, this will help him alleviate the pressures he has felt since achieving that title.
On the other hand, the Indian stars, including HS Prannoy, are expected to challenge Kunlavut Vitidsarn in their home tournament. HS Prannoy began his campaign on a perfect note, defeating former world number two Chou Tien Chen of Chinese Taipei with a score of 21-6, 21-19 on January 16, 2024. Prannoy acknowledges the tough competition after witnessing newcomer Anders Antonsen clinch the title in the recently concluded Malaysia Open. Despite the difficulties of competing in the men's singles discipline on a weekly basis, Prannoy is determined to improve and aims for continuous success in major tournaments.
The India Open 2024 promises to be a fiercely competitive event, even with the unexpected withdrawals of world champions Viktor Axelsen and Anders Antonsen. Kunlavut Vitidsarn, the reigning world champion from Thailand, is eager to defend his title despite recent challenges in his form. With strong contenders like HS Prannoy from the home country and others vying for the top spot, badminton fans can expect an intense showdown on the courts. This tournament will not only test the skill and resilience of the players but also offer a platform for emerging talents to make their mark in the badminton world.
Tags: Badminton, India Open 2024, Kunlavut Vitidsarn, Viktor Axelsen, Anders Antonsen, HS Prannoy