The badminton world is buzzing with anticipation as two of the sport’s biggest stars, Viktor Axelsen and Lee Zii Jia, are set to make their return to the BWF World Tour at the Hong Kong Open 2025. Both players, sidelined by injuries, have registered for the Super 500 tournament in September using their Protected Rankings, with Axelsen aiming to defend his title and Lee Zii Jia making his first tour appearance since March.
The news comes from the latest M and Q Report released by the Badminton World Federation (BWF), which confirmed the participation of the two prominent men’s singles players. For Viktor Axelsen, the defending champion, the Hong Kong Open will be a crucial step in his return to full form. The Danish powerhouse, who has been recovering from a back injury, has been seeded 4th in the tournament, a testament to his high standing in the sport despite his recent absence. Axelsen’s protected ranking allows him to compete at a high level without being impacted by a temporary dip in his BWF world ranking.
Axelsen’s protected ranking is a well-deserved privilege for a player who has consistently dominated the men’s singles circuit. A two-time Olympic champion and multiple-time World Champion, his presence in Hong Kong will undoubtedly elevate the competition and draw a large crowd. His successful campaign last year, which saw him clinch the title with a commanding performance, will be a source of motivation as he looks to reassert his dominance.
Equally significant is the return of Malaysia’s Lee Zii Jia. The Hong Kong Open will be his first World Tour event since the All England Open in March, an event that was cut short for him due to an ankle injury. Lee Zii Jia’s absence from the circuit has been a major talking point, with fans eagerly awaiting his comeback. Like Axelsen, he will be utilizing his protected ranking to secure his spot in the draw where he is seeded 7th.
The BWF’s Protected Ranking system is designed to help players who are out of action for a long period due to injury or illness. It ensures that when they return, they can enter tournaments that they would have otherwise been eligible for based on their original ranking. This system is a vital safety net for professional athletes, preventing a prolonged absence from severely impacting their career trajectory.
The Hong Kong Open 2025 is shaping up to be a spectacular tournament, not only because of the return of these two champions but also due to the overall high-quality field. The Super 500 event offers a significant opportunity for players to earn valuable ranking points and prize money. The return of Axelsen and Lee Zii Jia adds an extra layer of excitement, setting the stage for a dramatic and highly competitive event.
Badminton fans across the globe will be watching closely to see how both players perform. Axelsen’s return is a signal that he is ready to get back to the top of the rankings, while Lee Zii Jia’s comeback will be a test of his recovery and a chance to reignite his season. With both players having a point to prove, the men’s singles event at the Hong Kong Open promises to be an unmissable spectacle.