Group A placed China against Germany, with Lin Dan (VOLTRIC Z-FORCE IILD, SHBSC6LDEX) sealing a victory over Marc Zwiebler (ARCSABER 11, SHB-87EX). The world No. 2 once again awed audiences with ultra-precise shots, dramatic diving returns, and wealth of other impressive manoeuvres.
Japan, still riding strong off of their 2014 Thomas Cup victory and Uber Cup run to the finals, was victorious over Russia in Group B. However, Russia managed to score one victory over Japan in men’s doubles, with Vladimir Ivanov (VOLTRIC 80, SHB02LTD)/Ivan Sozonov (VOLTRIC 80 E-tune, SHBF1NLTD) winning over Hiroyuki Endo (VOLTRIC Z-FORCE II )/Kenichi Hayakawa. Japan came back strong to seal the remaining matches, with youngsters in particular excelling on the court. The world’s youngest Superseries champion across all disciplines, Akane Yamaguchi (VOLTRIC 80 E-tune) won against Natalia Perminova, leading Japan to a 4-1 win.
Former world No. 1 Lee Chong Wei (VOLTRIC Z-FORCE II LCW, SHB01LTD) made a spectacular return to the court in the Group D matchup between Malaysia and Korea. The 2014 YONEX OPEN JAPAN champion exhibited his characteristically strong brand of badminton, defeating Lee Dong Keun in straight games, contributing to the Malaysian team’s 3-2 victory.
Chris Adcock (VOLTRIC Z-FORCE II, SHB-02MX) and Gabrielle Adcock (VOLTRIC Z-FORCE II, SHB-02LX) were able to secure a win for their country in the Denmark VS England Group C matchup, but Danish aces such as Viktor Axelsen (ARCSABER 11, SHB-87EX) and Mads Pieler Kolding (ARCSABER 11, SHB-87EX) proved too strong across the remaining matches, with Denmark triumphing at 4-1.
YONEX was also out in full force at the stadium, with a booth and stringing service. Several fans visited the booth seeking out their perfect racquet, and even got a chance to meet some players. The stringing corner was busy, with many shuttlers getting their racquets strung for the beginning of the tournament.
2015 Sudirman Cup Results (Level 1, Day 1)
Group A
China def. Germany 5-0
Group B
Japan def. Russia 4-1
Group C
Denmark def. England 4-1
Group D
Malaysia def. Korea 3-2