Yesterday, the LI-NING Denmark Challenge 2019 came to an end with European winners in both singles categories as well as in the Mixed Doubles.
Blichfeldt wins Denmark Challenge
Mia Blichfeldt had to come through a strong match against her Japanese opponent Natsuki Oie who beat Line Kjærsfeldt in the semi-finals.
The young Dane spoke to Badminton Europe about the challenges that she faced against Oie and the tournament schedule for a challenge tournament.
- It was a tough match and I had very tired legs, so I fought it all the way to the win, Blichfeldt said.
- There are more matches in a few days, so it is mentally and physically harder, so I needed to prepare properly for each match, the 21-year-old added.
Vittinghus takes the title
Hans-Kristian Solberg Vittinghus, yesterday, won the Denmark Challenge 2019 title against Kai Schaefer from Germany in a close two-game match yesterday afternoon.
Vittinghus controlled the majority of the match at his speed and won to seal his first challenge tournament title.
- I am very happy but also extremely tired. It is a tough schedule, to play five matches in three days and especially against players of this level, he said.
- The quality of this event was really high, and I did not get anything for free, I had to work hard in all my matches.
All french final event
Ronan Labar/Anne Tran won the Mixed Doubles match against their fellow French opponents, Thom Gicquel/Delphine Delrue, in a tight match with three games. You can read the feature here.
Close but no cigar for England
England had two pairs in with a shout of the title. Lauren Smith/Chloe Birch in the Women’s Doubles, whilst Ben Lane/Sean Vendy had a chance to win the Men’s Doubles.
Both came through tough matches on Saturday and were in a final, which exceeded their expectations, but they were unable to maintain the level set in the semi-finals. The two pairs lost in straight games.
You can watch all the interviews here