KUALA LUMPUR: Frenchman Toma Junior Popov defeated third seed Jonatan Christie in an epic 81-minute battle at the Malaysia Open.
"World No. 19 Popov sent Christie of Indonesia packing after winning 21-8, 14-21, 26-24. The match was played at the Axiata Arena on Wednesday.
Christie became the second major casualty after two-time Olympic champion and fourth seed Viktor Axelsen's exit on Tuesday.
Popov, 27, credited his victory to staying composed. 'Fewer unforced errors, more focus, and better nerve control. I was clever at times and avoided mistakes.
Even when he mounted a challenge in the third game, I stayed calm and kept an open mind,' he said.
Popov, 27 years old, credited his win to staying composed. "Fewer easy mistakes, more focus, and better nerve control. I was clever at times and avoided unforced errors. Even when he mounted a chase in the third game, I stayed calm and kept an open mind," said Popov.
"It's just the start of 2025. No expectations—just play, enjoy the game, and the atmosphere, especially here in Malaysia," he added.
While Popov's win over Christie was impressive, it's no longer surprising. He has become more comfortable beating top players, including Axelsen and Indonesia's Ginting last year.
"It's about confidence," Popov explained. "You get used to playing top players and become more comfortable. I can't beat everyone every day—I'm not at that level yet—but I can surprise them."
After a solid 2024, the Popov has set high expectations for key tournaments in 2025, notably the European Championship and World Championships in his home city of Paris.
He finished runner-up at the Spain Masters, European Championship, and Hylo Open last year, and reached the last 16 at the Paris Olympics. Now, he hopes to replicate that success at the World Championships.
"I want to play at the Olympic stadium and give my best in front of the French crowd—they're one of the best," said Popov. "I can't wait to be there."
Popov faces back-to-back matches on Thursday: singles against either China's Weng Hong Yang or Hong Kong's Ng Ka Long, followed by doubles with his younger brother Christo against Daniel Lundgaard and Mads Vestergaard.
"It's all about balance," Popov joked. "Men's singles is the work, while men's doubles is the fun part. It's good to have one day to recover, and playing early today gives us time to prepare for tomorrow's two matches."