Tokyo, Japan – The 2025 Daihatsu Japan Open, a prestigious BWF World Tour Super 750 event offering a total prize money of US$950,000, witnessed a shocking upset in its opening round today as men’s singles world No. 1 and multiple tournament winner this year, Kunlavut Vitidsarn of Thailand, was eliminated by China’s Weng Hongyang. The highly anticipated match ended in two straight games, with Weng dominating 21-13, 21-19.
Vitidsarn, who has been in scintillating form this season, clinching titles at the Indonesia Masters, Thailand Open, and Singapore Open, and ascending to the top of the world rankings on June 3rd, 2025, seemed unable to find his rhythm against a resolute Weng. The Chinese shuttler displayed exceptional control and powerful attacking shots, leaving the reigning world champion reeling.
Adding to the day’s surprises, Indonesian star
Jonatan Christie also faced an early exit. Christie, a strong contender, succumbed to local favorite Kenta Nishimoto in a one-sided affair, with the Japanese prevailing 21-13, 21-12. This loss marks a disappointing start to the Japan Open campaign for Christie.
Meanwhile, defending champion Alex Lanier of France began his title defense in strong fashion, cruising past Malaysia’s Leong Jun Hao. Lanier secured his spot in the second round with a comfortable 21-12, 21-14 victory. He is now set to face a formidable opponent in Indonesia’s Alwi Farhan, the 2023 Junior champion, in what promises to be an exciting clash.
The early exits of top seeds like Vitidsarn and Christie highlight the unpredictable nature of top-tier badminton and set the stage for an intriguing tournament as the remaining players battle for supremacy and a share of the substantial prize money on offer at the Tokyo Metropolitan Gymnasium this week.