However, it wasn’t without resistance from World No 21 Gemke, who stunned the reigning Olympic and World champion 21-17 in the first set at the Axiata Arena here.

The 25-year-old continued with his fast and attacking game play at the beginning of the second set, but Axelsen bounced back and showed his prowess to tame Gemke 21-14 to force the match into a decider.

Axelsen, 29, then took full control of the match to confirm a 21-12 victory after battling for over an hour.

The World No 1 is scheduled to face veteran Liew Daren in the second round on Thursday.

“The first match is always tough, especially in the Axiata Arena where there is a strong drift. (You have to) take a lot of things into consideration, however, I am happy to have managed a win,” Axelsen told reporters after the match.

Axelsen is also confident that his performance will remain intact, even if he receives a walkover in the second round.

“I wish Daren all the best, he is a great guy. I hope he can play, however, it’s out of my control. I will continue with my training and preparations tomorrow, might have some time for a walk,” he added.

Daren, 36, had said after his first-round win against France’s Toma Junior Popov, that he might withdraw from the tournament due to an injury to his right calf.