Chong Wei, a step away from first world title

National badminton champion, Datuk Lee Chong Wei is a step away from his first world title after booking a slot in the 2014 World Championships final.

In the semi-final at Ballerup Super Arena on Saturday, Chong Wei was initially given a strong challenge by Denmark's rising star, Viktor Axelsen before subduing him in straight sets 21-9 and 21-7 in 34 minutes.

The victory enabled Chong Wei to enter the final for the third time after the 2011 tournament in England and 2013 in China.

He failed to clinch the world title after losing to his arch enemy Lin Dan of China in 2011.

A muscle pull in the deciding set against Lin Dan two years later saw Chong Wei missing the title for the second time.

Speaking to reporters after the match, Chong Wei said he did not expect to gain such extraordinary confidence against Axelsen who received the full support of the home crowd.

"Before I came to the championships, I have not fully recovered from the groin injury...thus qualifying for the final for the third time was a surprise.

"I also spurred myself that I can do it and focus on one match at a time...now that I am in the final, I will give my best," he said.

The Penang born shuttler said if he wins in the final on Sunday, it would be a present dedicated to Malaysia's 57th Merdeka Day, which is the most meaningful in his entire badminton career.

Meanwhile Axelsen said he had tried his best to beat the Malaysian player but found Chong Wei a tough nut to crack.

He also tipped Chong Wei to clinch his first ever world title.

"I was a bit disappointed with the defeat but Chong Wei played a very good game...he played a fast pace game compared to me. I try to play a perfect game today but it did not go down well," said the 20-year Danish shuttler.

National singles coach Tey Seu Bock is confident Chong Wei would carry on his winning momentum in the final even though he would be facing either second seed Chen Long of China or fifth seed, Tommy Sugiarto of Indonesia.

Chen and Tommy will be squaring off in the semi-final late Saturday to grab the other slot to the final.

"In the last few days, I saw Chong Wei's momentum picking up but the final tomorrow will be different as he will be appearing for the third time.

"I hope he would not let his two previous losses affect him and should look forward...What he needs is to stay focus and enjoy his game," said Tey.