KUALA LUMPUR: Trust Dane Anders Antonsen to know all about injuries and regaining form after being in a dark place for a long time.
After an injury-plagued 2022, the men's singles shuttler slowly picked himself up and clawed his way back into the world's top 10 last season.
The world No. 9 got his 2024 season off to a flying start today when he upset India's world No. 8 H. S. Prannoy 21-14, 21-11 to reach the second round of the Petronas Malaysia Open.
Speaking to the media, Antonsen shared some words of encouragement for Malaysia's Ng Tze Yong, who was forced to retire midway in his first-round match against Japan's Koki Watanabe after sustaining a back injury.
Antonsen, who will face Koki in the second round, said: "I always believe that what doesn't kill you only makes you stronger. I know it's a cliché, but there is truth to it.
"I remember in 2022, when I was out for months injured, I was filled with so much uncertainty that I isolated myself.
"But if you're able to get past tough times like these, then pick yourself back up because I believe you will be much stronger on the other side."
Antonsen was elated to have finally beaten Prannoy in his third attempt.
"I'm really glad because this is my first time beating him. I have a lot of respect for Prannoy and was really looking forward to playing him since our last encounter in 2018," he added.