Popov topples Christie in Malaysia Open, gains more ‘confidence’
Toma Junior Popov topples No.3 seed Jonatan Christie at the Malaysia Open on Wednesday as he continues to gain more “confidence.”
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POPOV TOPPLES INDONESIA’S CHRISTIE IN 81-MINUTE THRILLER
Popov topples Christie, 21-8, 14-21, 26-24, in a thrilling match that lasted 81 minutes.
Furthermore, the Frenchman world No.19 overcame a second set letdown by outlasting the Indonesian world No.3 in the decider.
Moreover, Popov withstood a back-and-fourth battle in the third set at the Axiata Arena in Kuala Lumpur.
“Fewer easy mistakes, more focus, and better nerve control. I was clever at times and avoided unforced errors,” the 27-year-old said.
“It’s just the start of 2025, no expectations – just play, enjoy the game, and the atmosphere, especially here in Malaysia,” he added.
FRENCHMAN PREACHES ‘CONFIDENCE’ IN ‘BEATING THE TOP PLAYERS’
Moreover, the Frenchman preaches “confidence,” as he reminded fans that he is getting more comfortable in “beating the top players.”
Furthermore, Popov is no stranger to upsetting some of the world’s top men’s shuttlers.
He had previously beaten Denmark’s Viktor Axelsen and another Indonesian in world No.10 Anthony Sinisuka Ginting.
“It’s about confidence. You get used to playing top players and become more comfortable,” Popov said.
“I can’t beat everyone every day – I’m not at that level yet – but I can surprise them,” he added.
AXELSEN, SEN JOIN CHRISTIE IN EARLY EXITS
Furthermore, Axelsen and Lakshya Sen of India joined Christie among the notable men’s shuttlers in early exits.
Moreover, the Danish former world No.1 was the first major seed to fall after he absorbed a 17-21, 13-21 loss to Hong Kong’s Lee Cheuk Yiu.
Axelsen was coming off a leg injury after the China Masters in November and apparently hasn’t recovered yet.
“I don’t think I’m physically strong at the moment and I need to fix that. Unfortunately, I haven’t been able to practice prior to the tournament,” Axelsen said.
Sen joined Axelsen and Christie in the sidelines after yielding a 14-21, 7-21 setback to Chi Yu-jen of Chinese Taipei.
The Indian world No.11 fell to several unforced errors, which the world No.32 took advantage of throughout.
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