Arctic Open: Lee Rediscovers Spark

Lee Zii Jia reminded the badminton world of his capabilities by ousting world No.2 Christo Popov in straight games at CLASH OF CLANS Arctic Open 2026 on Friday.

The former world No.2, who has struggled to regain form amid recurring injuries, was in his element in a commanding 21-11 21-16 quarterfinal victory. Known for his powerful smashes, Lee unleashed a barrage of attacking shots that Popov struggled to contain.

The 2023 champion has now reached his first Super 500 semifinal in more than two years. His previous appearance came at the Australian Open in June 2024, where he went on to claim the title. Next up is a showdown with longtime friend Anders Antonsen, who defeated Hu Zhe An 22-20 21-19.

Should Lee overcome Antonsen, he will face a Japanese opponent in the final, with Yushi Tanaka and Koki Watanabe set to battle for the other spot. Lee has yet to drop a game in Vantaa.

Watanabe ended Chou Tien Chen’s two-year reign 21-19 21-16, while Tanaka produced the bigger upset, recovering from a game down to beat top seed Kunlavut Vitidsarn 14-21 21-13 21-16.

In women’s singles, Mia Blichfeldt finally got the better of Han Yue after four losses, edging the third seed 21-18 24-22 in 56 minutes. The Dane will next face Japanese veteran Nozomi Okuhara, who also overcame a familiar hurdle by defeating compatriot Tomoka Miyazaki for the first time in four attempts, winning 17-21 21-17 21-19.

Meanwhile, the much-anticipated showdown between women’s singles stalwarts Ratchanok Intanon and Pusarla V. Sindhu went the Thai player’s way. Intanon prevailed 21-11 19-21 21-18 in a hard-fought encounter to book her place in the semifinals.