NANJING, Aug. 3 (Xinhua) -- Top seed Viktor Axelsen was edged out by China's two-time world champion Chen Long in the quarterfinals of the 2018 BWF World Championship, becoming the fourth reigning world no.1 to bid farewell to the tournament.
"I was very confident before and during the match. I firmly believed that I could beat him as long as I give my best effort," Chen said.
Axelsen was the attacking side in the majority of the match, jumping up high to unleash ultra-fast smashes from time to time. But Chen's patience paid off as the Dane committed frequent faults, which made him swing his racket with anxiety. Chen seized the game point at 20-18 when Axelsen's return was called out and the video review said the same. The no.8 seed successful converted the game point and earned himself a 1-0 advantage.
Chen sustained his momentum into the second game while the defending champion was still troubled by errors. A last "out!" by the line judge confirmed Axelsen's elimination after a 21-19, 21-11 loss.
"Today Chen Long played better than I did. I made too many mistakes, especially at crucial time in the first game," Axelsen said afterwards.
Chen Long will take on compatriot Shi Yuqi in the semifinals on Saturday. The Olympic gold medalist holds a 4-1 head-to-head advantage against his teammate but was bested in their last encounter in the quarterfinals of the All-England Open this year.
