Hong Kong, May 31: Alex Lanier triumphed over Loh Kean Yew with a score of 17-21, 21-15, 21-14 to secure the Men’s Singles title at the Singapore Open on Sunday. The 21-year-old French player achieved his second BWF Super 750 title, becoming the first Frenchman to win this prestigious tournament in men’s singles.
For Singapore’s star player Loh, this loss marked a heartbreaking conclusion to a memorable week. The former world champion was just one step away from becoming the first Singaporean to win the Men’s Singles trophy at his home tournament since 1962. The packed stadium was fully behind him during the final.
However, Lanier showcased his strong intentions from the outset. The young player made a stunning start, quickly establishing a 6-0 lead in the first game, putting immediate pressure on Loh. Nevertheless, the Singaporean responded brilliantly. Inspired by the crowd’s energy, he gradually fought back in the match.
Loh collected points one by one, leveling the score at 10-10. By the time of the mid-game break, Lanier held a narrow lead of one point, but the momentum had shifted in Loh’s favor.
As the game resumed, both players engaged in a fierce contest, but Loh increased his pace and rhythm. For the first time, he took the lead at 14-13, gradually solidifying his grip on the game. Despite a last-ditch effort from Lanier, Loh displayed calm and composed play, winning four of the last five points to take the first game 21-17.
Lanier responded with equal vigor. Starting the second game with a rapid 7-1 lead, he dominated the rallies with greater aggression and precision. Loh once again mounted a strong comeback, scoring six consecutive points to bring the score to 14-13. However, Lanier secured the second game 21-15, pushing the match to a deciding third set.
In the final game, Lanier appeared to be in top form. For the third time in the match, he established a 6-0 lead and, unlike in the previous two games, he did not allow Loh any chance to recover. While the Singaporean continued to fight and attempted another comeback, Lanier maintained his composure and controlled the pace of the rallies.
As victory drew near, the French player remained aggressively focused, ultimately winning the decisive set 21-14. This result capped off a fantastic week for Lanier and further solidified his rising reputation among badminton’s emerging young stars.
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