Tensions are starting to rise, as we are moving closer to the first days of the 2024 European Championships. The draws have been conducted and we are now able to dive into the matches that will decide the faiths of some of Europe’s best, in their path to win the most prestigious prize.
The 2024 European Championships will take place in Saarbrücken, Germany from 8 to 14 April. The draws were conducted today 19th March in the BEC Office in Brøndby, Denmark.
A few selected highlights of some of the early encounters in Saarbrücken:
Viktor Axelsen (DEN) vs Kai Schäfer (GER)
The local hero Kai Schäfer will in his first match face no other than the world number 1 Viktor Axelsen. After his controversial departure from All England, Viktor Axelsen will be hungry to once again show why he is placed on the top of the world ranking. But local favorite Kai Schäfer, will with help from the crowd, try to make it anything but easy for the reigning European Champion. The match will be one of the selected evening session matches on Wednesday 10th April.
Alex Lanier (FRA) vs Christo Popov (FRA)
Stars of the future, both Alex Lanier and Christo Popov will definitely be some of the names we will be seeing more of, both in European badminton and on the world circuit. With a win in German Open, and semi-final at All England, Christo Popov has had an amazing 2024 so far, and will be aiming of a podium spot.
BUT Alex Lanier is known for his ability to break tournament favorites, and with a semi-final spot at last year’s HYLO Open, losing in three close games to Chou Tien Chen, Lanier has proven himself in the surroundings, so maybe we will see an early upset here. Surely a very tough draw for both of the French talents.
Christo Popov / Toma Junior Popov (FRA) vs Daniel Hess / Patrick Scheiel (GER)
and
Ronan Labar / Lucas Corvee (FRA) vs Bjarne Geiss / Jan Colin Völker (GER)
Approximately 7 Km from Saarlandhalle you can cross the French border, so these two matchups could not be played in a more appropriate setting. Spectators from both sides of the border will try to give the competitive edge to their favorites. The French pairs are not only playing for medals, but also for a chance to qualify for the Olympics in Paris, hence much is at stake in Saarbrücken for “Le Blues”. It’s men’s doubles – it’s European Championships – it’s France versus Germany!
Click here to see the draws from all five categories at the 2024 European Championships
We are without any doubt looking forward to some exiting days in Saarlandhalle in Saarbrücken, where dreams will be both fulfilled and shattered. Who will be your favorite?
If you are yet to have secured your ticket this can be done here, CLICK HERE.