Zii Jia, ranked fifth in the world, lost 21-19, 11-21, 21-23 to Axelsen at the Istora Senayan Stadium.

Despite beating the world No. 1 player in the first set, Zii Jia failed to maintain control and lost the following two sets.

Speaking to reporters after the match, he conceded that beating Axelsen was tough although he had tried his best.

“I have met Axelsen many times. We know each other’s game. In the second set, my focus blurred; I think I need to work out more with the team,” he said.

On his preparations for the Malaysia Open from June 28, Zii Jia said he needed to improve his coordination to avoid injuries after playing in so many tournaments.

The country’s challenge in the men’s doubles also fizzled out when Aaron Chia-Soh Wooi Yik went down 18-21, 13-21 to Liu Yu Cheng-Ou Xuan Yi of China.

“I am disappointed I made so many errors. It seems to happen whenever we’re in the semifinals. This has got to stop,” said Aaron.

The world number seven pair is, however, determined to redeem themselves in the Malaysia Open.