Top five favourites to win men's singles title at BWF World Tour Finals 2024

Title favourite and defending champion Viktor Axelsen has withdrawn from the BWF World Tour Finals 2024.

The badminton world’s attention turns to Hangzhou, China, as the BWF World Tour Finals 2024 will be held from December 11-15. This prestigious tournament will feature the top seven players of the season and Olympic champions, who have earned direct qualification. With a prize pool of $2,500,000, the stakes are high.

In a dramatic twist prior to the tournament, defending champion and two-time Olympic gold medallist Viktor Axelsen has withdrawn due to a left foot injury. His decision leaves the field wide open for new challengers. Axelsen’s absence also paved way for China’s Li Shifeng, ranked No. #8 in the Race to Finals Rankings, to make his mark after a standout win at the Kumamoto Masters Japan 2024.

With Axelsen out, the race for the men’s singles crown promises intense competition. Here’s a look at the top five players who are favourites to win men’s singles title at BWF World Tour Finals 2024:

5. Jonatan Christie (Indonesia)

Jonatan Christie, the reigning All England Open and Asian Championships winner, is Indonesia’s top-ranked player. Making his BWF World Tour Finals debut in 2019, Christie endured early exits but has shown steady progress, reaching the semifinals in 2022 and 2023.

This year, he has barely made it to the finale, but his recent performances at the Japan Masters and China Masters underline his form. The late surge boosts his confidence, making him a serious contender for his first title.

4. Lee Zii Jia (Malaysia)

Malaysia’s star player Lee Zii Jia, the Olympic bronze medallist, enters the BWF World Tour Finals with something to prove. His 2024 trophy hall includes titles such as the Thailand Open, Australian Open but his podium finish at the Paris Olympics stands out.

Lee’s last BWF World Tour Finals appearance was in 2021, where he reached the semifinals, his best performance so far. With his attacking style, Lee will be eager to claim his maiden championship.

Also Read: How do players qualify for BWF World Tour Finals?

3. Shi Yuqi (China)

World No. #1 Shi Yuqi has had a stellar 2024, winning titles like the India Open, French Open, and Indonesia Open. He also led China to Thomas Cup glory, winning all his matches. Although his Paris Olympics campaign ended in a shock quarter-final defeat, Shi has the advantage of playing on home soil. A former champion in 2018 and runner-up last year, Shi will aim to cap off his season with another title.

2. Kunlavut Vitidsarn (Thailand)

Thailand’s Kunlavut Vitidsarn is one of the most exciting players on the circuit. The reigning Olympic silver medallist and 2023 World Champion is always a player to watch out for. His victories against top opponents come frequently, making him a tough opponent for any player.

In 2024, he has won the Korea Masters title and has a runner-up finish at the French Open 2024. A finalist at the 2021 edition of the BWF World Tour Finals, Kunlavut will look to use his past experience to go all the way this time. His sharp defensive game makes him a tough opponent.

Also Read: Top five players with most appearances in BWF World Tour Finals

1. Anders Antonsen (Denmark)

Denmark’s Anders Antonsen tops the list as the No. #1 seed, riding on an exceptional season. Antonsen has clinched titles at the Malaysia Open Super 1000, Indonesia Masters, and Denmark Open, showcasing consistency and dominance. He also finished as a runner-up at the Indonesia Open.

A former BWF World Tour Finals champion in 2020, Antonsen will hope to take advantage of Axelsen’s absence and reclaim the crown. His all-around game and mental strength make him the player to beat.

With the defending champion Viktor Axelsen out, the BWF World Tour Finals 2024 promise thrilling clashes and non-stop action. The matches unfold from December 11-15 in Hangzhou, with fans eagerly anticipating who will emerge as the men’s singles champion.

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