KUALA LUMPUR: In-form Anders Antonsen is the man to beat at the Malaysia Open as he looks to defend his Super 1000 crown next week.
However, the Danish world No. 2 remains cautious, recalling his inability to achieve a grand double in Malaysia last year.
After clinching his maiden Malaysia Open title, Antonsen faltered at the Malaysia Masters in May, exiting in the quarter-finals.
His defeat at the Super 500 event paved the way for compatriot and world No. 4 Viktor Axelsen to secure the Masters title.
The setback has only fuelled Antonsen's resolve ahead of his title defence.
"It's crazy that the World Tour starts with a Super 1000, but I don't feel additional pressure as the defending champion," Antonsen said after a training session at the Academy Badminton Malaysia (ABM) in Bukit Kiara today.
"I have good memories here and want to perform well again.
"However, I also played in the Malaysia Masters last May and lost in the quarter-finals.
"So, it's more about seeking revenge than defending something.
"I've had a good run in recent tournaments and played a lot of matches. Physically, I feel great and in match form," he added.
Second-seeded Antonsen begins his campaign against Taiwan's world No. 24 Wang Tzu Wei in the first round.
He faces a potential second-round clash with Japan's world No. 11 Koki Watanabe or Singapore's world No. 13 Loh Kean Yew, followed by a possible quarter-final showdown with Thailand's reigning world champion Kunlavut Vitidsarn.
"On his best day, Tzu Wei can challenge anyone, so I have to take him seriously.
"These matches can go either way, and I don't want to look too far ahead," said Antonsen.
Antonsen's current form suggests he will be a top contender at the Malaysia Open.
With Lee Zii Jia withdrawing due to an ankle injury, his main rivals are expected to be two-time Olympic champion Axelsen and world No. 1 Shi Yu Qi of China.
Antonsen has been in stellar form in his last three starts, winning the China Masters, finishing as runner-up at the World Tour Finals in December, and clinching the King Cup Invitational in Shenzhen.
He appears well-placed to set up a repeat of last year's final against Yu Qi at the Axiata Arena in Bukit Jalil, though Axelsen could spoil the party for them.