Bali just gets better for Kunlavut Vitidsarn who became the first Thai men’s singles player to reach the final of the season-ending championships with a 21-18 21-18 over Malaysia’s Lee Zii Jia.

The Thai roared in celebration after clinching the winning point. “I’m so glad to reach the final,” he said.

“I feel great about this victory. I controlled the shuttle and I played my game how I wanted to, and I showed my physical fitness. I was really mentally prepared today. Really focused.”

Vitidsarn said he had learnt from his HSBC BWF World Tour Finals 2021 Group B loss to Lee on Wednesday, adding he now has the confidence to counter Lee’s attack in the future.

“After I saw the draw, I made a plan with my coach about how to approach this match. I didn’t think too much about things on the court. I think that’s what made the match really good today.

“I was controlling most of the game and Lee was making some mistakes.”

Vitidsarn had a keen eye on the remaining men’s singles final, eager to find out who he would face.

“If Viktor wins, I want to play him. Axelsen is the Olympic champion and I want to learn more about his game.”

The 20-year-old got his wish with Viktor Axelsen cruising past India’s Lakshya Sen 21-13 21-11 in domineering fashion.

Axelsen leads the head-to-head count 3-0 and stands to add to his amazing year after he was last night crowned BWF Male Player of the Year for 2020/2021.