The TotalEnergies BWF World Championships 2023 have kicked off successfully in the Royal Arena in Copenhagen, Denmark. The home crowd was treated to some good wins from their favourites, including reigning world champion Viktor Axelsen.

“The vibe, the atmosphere, the people. Everything feels like the World Championships should feel. I’m happy to be here and ready to do my best during the week,” Axelsen stated after his win against Ireland’s Nhat Nguyen, 21-6 21-11.

The pressure is on from the get-go, as it should be at such an event, and this will be the case for Axelsen. The Dane will be facing no other than Christo Popov — a player that has famously challenged the reigning world champion twice this year, in the European Mixed Team Championships and in the European Games, in tough three-game matches.

“I think it will just be another big battle. I have lost every time against him but I know I can bring a good game. I’ve also had some opportunities to win so I’m quite confident to have an opportunity like this tomorrow,” the Frenchman said about the clash against Axelsen tomorrow.

Popov also reflects on whether competing at home will play in the Dane’s favour or if the pressure will be stronger and pose a threat.  “He’s playing on home soil, so I believe he has more motivation than everybody else in here, but this maybe also adds a bit more pressure for him.”

You can see all of today’s results here. Tomorrow, matches will be starting at 9am (CEST) and they will be live-streamed on BWF TV.