China’s Squad for the 2025 Badminton Asia Mixed Team Championships

As the reigning champions, China enters the 2025 Badminton Asia Mixed Team Championships with a squad that raises eyebrows. Unlike previous years, where experienced players dominated the lineup, this year’s selection leans heavily on young and relatively untested athletes with lower world rankings. This approach suggests that China is either focusing on long-term development or testing new talent on an international stage.

A Young and Inexperienced Squad

A glance at China’s squad reveals a roster largely composed of young players with rankings outside the top 50 in their respective categories. Players like Zhu Xuanchen (MS, ranked 168) and Xu Wenjing (WS, ranked 433) are among those who lack significant international exposure. The doubles category also features unproven partnerships, with Gao Jiaxuan and Wang Tingge ranking 370 and 704 in mixed doubles, respectively.

This selection strategy is a stark contrast to past tournaments where China fielded battle-hardened athletes with a track record of success. With other powerhouses like Indonesia, Japan, and Malaysia bringing more balanced squads, China’s decision to gamble on young talent could prove risky.

The Presence of Big Names: Chen Yufei and Chen Qingchen

Despite the overall youth-oriented squad, two household names stand out: Chen Yufei and Chen Qingchen. Chen Yufei, ranked 6th in women’s singles, is an Olympic gold medalist and one of the most consistent performers in recent years. Meanwhile, Chen Qingchen, ranked 4th in women’s doubles, is a multiple-time world champion and a crucial component of China’s doubles dominance.

However, it remains uncertain whether these two will actually take to the court. Their inclusion may be more of a symbolic presence rather than an indication that they will play every match. If China chooses to rest them for strategic reasons or due to fitness concerns, the younger players will have to shoulder the team’s expectations.

Can China Retain Their Title?

With this young and relatively inexperienced squad, China’s chances of defending their title appear uncertain. While their system has consistently produced world-class players, this tournament might be too soon for many of these young athletes to shine at the highest level. The lack of experience could be a major disadvantage, especially in high-pressure matches against seasoned opponents from Japan, Indonesia, and South Korea.

If Chen Yufei and Chen Qingchen play key roles, China’s chances of making a deep run improve significantly. However, if the young squad is left to fend for themselves, an early exit is not out of the question.

Ultimately, this tournament will serve as a litmus test for China’s next generation. While they remain a formidable force, this year’s competition may be their toughest challenge in recent years.

China Squad List