Danish badminton star Anders Antonsen fought back from a game down to beat home favourite Kunlavut Vitidsarn in a thrilling men’s singles final and capture the Thailand Open 2026 title in Bangkok.
The world No. 3 recovered after a one-sided opening game to defeat Vitidsarn 9-21, 24-22, 21-18 in a gripping contest that lasted more than 90 minutes at the Nimibutr Stadium.
Antonsen looked completely outplayed in the first game as Thailand’s world No. 2 dominated in front of an energetic home crowd. However, the Dane gradually regained control through aggressive rallies and sharp court coverage to turn the match around.
The second game proved to be the turning point of the final. Antonsen showed tremendous resilience under pressure, saving crucial points before edging the tense contest 24-22 to force a decider.
Vitidsarn appeared to regain momentum midway through the final game after overturning an early deficit, but Antonsen’s superior endurance and attacking play helped him seize control during the closing stages of the match.
The victory marked Antonsen’s first BWF World Tour title of the 2026 season and the 11th World Tour title of his career. It also served as sweet revenge after his defeat to Vitidsarn in last year’s Thailand Open final.
Antonsen had reached the final after China’s Shi Yuqi withdrew from their semifinal clash, while Vitidsarn entered the title match following a commanding straight-games win over Taiwan veteran Chou Tien-chen.
Despite the defeat, Vitidsarn once again demonstrated why he remains one of the most consistent performers on the BWF circuit, continuing his impressive run in front of home supporters.
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