Lin Chun-Yi has played twice at the Axiata Arena and he’s made the semifinals both times.

The 24-year-old qualified for the PETRONAS Malaysia Open 2024 last four after packing off third seed Li Shi Feng yesterday in straight games, taking 49 minutes to seal a 21-12 21-18 victory. The only previous occasion he featured at the venue, Lin reached the Malaysia Masters semis in May.

“I’ve surprised myself by coming this far. I seem to have good luck here,” he said after the win.

“I’m yet to play a Super 1000 semifinal so this achievement feels great. I didn’t do well the last time out (Syed Modi India International in November) so I had no idea of my condition or form coming into this tournament but I’ve managed to play at a high level so far.”

Hinting he feels at home at the arena, the world No.21 added: “At the Malaysia Masters, there was no wind and the shuttle was slow. Now although there’s a lot of drift, I’ve adjusted accordingly.”

Eight months ago, Lin lost to Weng Hong Yang. This time around, the emerging Chinese Taipei star who saw off world champion Kunlavut Vitidsarn in the last 16, hopes to make that extra step that will put him in his first Super 1000 final.

“I want to keep consistent. It’s no use playing well one day and losing the next,” said the 2023 Thailand Masters champion.

Lin’s semifinal opponent is Dane Anders Antonsen. It will be the pair’s maiden meeting.