Thai Kunlavut feels home power at Axiata

KUALA LUMPUR: Thailand's Kunlavut Vitidsarn rode a wave of familiar support to book a place in his first Super 1000 final, saying the Malaysia Open felt like a home tournament after defeating Indonesia's Jonatan Christie 21-16, 21-16 at Axiata Arena today.

The world No. 2 credited the strong backing from the stands for lifting him through a demanding encounter, with Thai fans turning the Kuala Lumpur venue into a near home ground.

"I feel like playing in my hometown, and I feel very happy," Kunlavut said.

Kunlavut adjusted smartly to the slower conditions, opting for patience and control rather than all-out attack to wear down the Indonesian.

"I think today, I must have long rallies because the shuttle sometimes is very slow. If you always attack, it uses a lot of power."

He said both players brought clear tactical plans into the match, with Christie applying pressure through his attacking game, but felt his own approach held firm across both games.

The win marks a significant milestone for the Thai, who admitted that Super 1000 tournaments have often ended in frustration for him in the past.

"I hope to get some medals in Super 1000, because when I play the Super 1000, I always lose in the early rounds. This time, I am in the final round."

Kunlavut will face China's world No. 1 Shi Yu Qi in tomorrow's final. Yu Qi booked his fourth consecutive Malaysia Open final after defeating Denmark's world No. 3 Anders Antonsen 21-13, 21-14.

"Playing against Kunlavut is always very challenging, and the feeling is different every time," said Yu Qi.