From rising Korean talent to France’s promising junior pairs and Malaysia’s next generation of women’s doubles players, here’s what was said in and around the badminton world over the past week.
“ The fact men’s singles is seen as a weakness in Korean badminton is an opportunity for me to make a name. I hope to create an upset at the Asian Games after all the sweat I’ve poured in.”
— Yoo Tae Bin, determined to make his mark at the Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games.
“Even on court, we know what the other will do. We know everything about the other. And we are there for each other. Even in the bad moments, we are there.”
— France’s Rayan Benaissa on the understanding he shares with junior men’s doubles partner Mady Sow.
“Pearly (Tan) and Thinaah (Muralitharan) were not formed in a day. It took a five-year programme to mature and develop them before we could see the results. We also need to be fair to the upcoming pairs and give them time.”
— Malaysia women’s doubles coach Wong Pei Tty calling for patience as the country develops its next top pair.
“We are proud to see AirBadminton take its place on such a prestigious international stage and look forward to Karlsruhe 2029.”
— BWF President Khunying Patama Leeswadtrakul welcoming AirBadminton’s inclusion at The World Games 2029.
From China Masters
“As a pair, Azriyn and I haven’t achieved anything yet. So, whether it’s a small or a big tournament, we hope to win something. That winning feeling remains a big motivation.”
— Malaysia’s Tan Wee Kiong, who became the tournament’s oldest semifinalist at 37, on what continues to drive him.
“Reaching a 750 semifinal is a first for us as a pair. Being able to break through gives us confidence. I believe we are getting better with each match and tournament we play. We really feel that.”
— Japan’s Ayako Sakuramoto after reaching the China Masters semifinals with new partner Sayaka Hirota.
