It is hard to believe that we are getting ready to say goodbye to Jan O Jorgensen, one of the biggest names in men’s singles. His farewell Denmark Open got off to a great start in Odense today.
The charismatic Dane played the first match of his final Denmark Open, a tournament close to his heart. Playing the young Felix Burestedt, he found himself 8-2 down in the opening exchanges. However, Jorgensen was using his experience to adjust to the conditions, as he says.
-I think the shuttle is quite fast, so I had to settle. I didn’t feel that good playing the whole court and I was hitting it a bit short because of the speed in the shuttle. I also had the drift going with me, so I had to let this settle a little bit.
-I then made some good changes and played the game a little bit more on my circumstances. He [Felix) then had some difficulty settling into that.
I’d maybe eat this bottle
Winning the Denmark Open one decade ago in 2010, we asked Jorgensen how special it would be if he could end it all with another Denmark Open here this week. Jorgensen quipped that it made him feel old before saying.
-That would be a pretty big sensation, especially if you look at who is in the draw. So, let’s not talk about that before the miracle actually happens. I’d be glad to answer it on Sunday if we are there.
Holding a drink bottle in his hand, he added.
-I’d maybe eat this bottle if we go there!
Jorgensen also emphasised that this is a special place for him, his home event, so is happy to finish it off there.
Last time Jorgensen was victorious at the Denmark Open, it was to a full capacity crowd. This time the crowd has been minimised due to the additional COVID-19 restrictions. Despite this, the crowd came alive when he walked on court this evening. Commenting on this, he states.
-Yes, it was nice. They made me feel great and I think they were pretty loud actually considering how many were in there, so really happy about that and even happier that I could give them a win. I am here for one more day, so that’s awesome!