Lee Zii Jia made history by becoming the first Malaysian to win the All England Open in 18 years, after a thrilling three-game victory over defending champion Viktor Axelsen. The 23-year-old showed incredible resilience and determination to overcome the world number two from Denmark, 30-29, 20-22, 21-9, in a 74-minute epic final. The first game was a nail-biting affair, as both players exchanged powerful smashes and delicate net shots, with neither able to gain a clear advantage. The score was levelled 10 times from 21-21 to 30-30, before Lee clinched the game with a brilliant cross-court drop shot that caught Axelsen off guard. The second game was equally intense, as Axelsen fought back with his trademark aggression and accuracy. The Dane led 11-8 at the interval, but Lee refused to give up and levelled the score at 18-18. However, Axelsen managed to edge ahead and force a decider with a smash that Lee could not return. The third game was a different story, as Lee dominated from start to finish. He raced to a 11-5 lead at the break, and continued to pile on the pressure with his speed and stamina. Axelsen looked tired and frustrated, as he made several unforced errors and failed to match Lee's intensity. Lee sealed the match and the title with a smash down the line, sparking wild celebrations from him and his coach. Lee's triumph was a historic moment for Malaysian badminton, as he became the first player from the country to lift the prestigious trophy since Hafiz Hashim in 2003. He also ended a 10-year drought for Southeast Asian players in the men's singles event, and rose to a career-high ranking of world #badminton #leeziijia #viktoraxelsen #allengland - @badmintoff