Badminton World Tour

2026 Indonesia Masters
2026-01-20 00:00 - 2026-01-25 23:59 (Asia/Jakarta) | Istora Gelora Bung Karno, Jl. Pintu Satu Senayan No.1, RT.1/RW.3, Gelora, Kecamatan Tanah Abang, Kota Jakarta Pusat, Daerah Khusus Ibukota Jakarta, 10270, Indonesia
Updated on October 12, 2025

The 2026 Indonesia Masters has officially concluded at the legendary Istora Senayan, Jakarta, delivering a thrilling week of world-class badminton and memorable championship moments. As a BWF World Tour Super 500 event, the tournament once again proved to be one of the early-season highlights, offering valuable ranking points and fierce competition across all five disciplines.

Renowned among players and fans for its electrifying, almost unmatched atmosphere, Istora Senayan lived up to its reputation as one of the loudest and most intimidating venues on the tour. Across finals day, top seeds, rising stars, and crowd favorites battled for glory, with several matches ending decisively and others showcasing resilience under pressure.

The 2026 edition also marked a strong showing from Malaysia and China, while Thailand and Indonesia celebrated notable finals appearances in front of a passionate home crowd.

Table of Contents[Open][Close]Indonesia Masters 2026 Champions🏆 Women’s Singles🏆 Mixed Doubles🏆 Women’s Doubles🏆 Men’s Singles🏆 Men’s DoublesKey Tournament InformationStars to Watch in 2026Tournament ScheduleTV Broadcast SchedulePrize Money DistributionBrief History

Indonesia Masters 2026 Champions

🏆 Women’s Singles

Chen Yufei (China) [1]Defeated Pitchamon Opatniputh (Thailand)Score: 23–21, 21–13Match Duration: 52 minutes

🏆 Mixed Doubles

Chen Tang Jie / Toh Ee Wei (Malaysia) [3]Defeated Mathias Christiansen / Alexandra Bøje (Denmark)Score: 15–21, 21–17, 21–11Match Duration: 57 minutes

🏆 Women’s Doubles

Pearly Tan / Thinaah Muralitharan (Malaysia) [1]Won by walkover against Arisa Igarashi / Miyu Takahashi (Japan)

🏆 Men’s Singles

Alwi Farhan (Indonesia) [8]Defeated Panitchaphon Teeraratsakul (Thailand) [PFQ]Score: 21–5, 21–6Match Duration: 25 minutes

🏆 Men’s Doubles

Goh Sze Fei / Nur Izzuddin (Malaysia) [4]Defeated Raymond Indra / Nikolaus Joaquin (Indonesia)Score: 21–19, 21–13Match Duration: 37 minutes

With the curtain now closed on the Indonesia Masters 2026, attention turns to the next stops on the BWF World Tour. However, the energy, drama, and unforgettable scenes from Istora Senayan will linger long in the memory—once again affirming Jakarta’s place as one of badminton’s most iconic stages.

Key Tournament Information

Date: 20 – 25 January 2026

Venue: Istora Gelora Bung Karno (Istora Senayan), Jakarta, Indonesia

Level: HSBC BWF World Tour Super 500

Total Prize Money: US$500,000

Organizer: Badminton Association of Indonesia (PBSI)

Stars to Watch in 2026

With the withdrawal of Danish superstar Viktor Axelsen, the field has opened up significantly, particularly in the Men’s Singles. Based on the M&Q report and recent form, here are the key contenders:

Men’s Singles (MS)

Anders Antonsen (Denmark): The top seed will look to capitalize on his compatriot’s absence. He has a strong history at Istora.

Kunlavut Vitidsarn (Thailand): The defending champion returns as the 2nd seed.

Jonatan Christie (Indonesia): The home crowd favorite and 2025 runner-up will be desperate to go one better this year.

Women’s Singles (WS)

Chen Yufei (China): The Chinese superstar headlines the draw as the top seed.

Putri Kusuma Wardani (Indonesia): Seeded 3rd, “Putri KW” is Indonesia’s leading hope in the women’s singles.

Doubles Pairs

Men’s Doubles: Malaysia’s Aaron Chia/Soh Wooi Yik will return as the Top Seeds. Last year, they lost in the semifinals to their compatriots, and this time they’ll be looking to go one step further. Indonesia’s Fajar Alfian, who played alongside Muhammad Rian Ardianto last year, now plays alongside Muhammad Shohibul Fikri. They were finalists last year, and he and Fikri are now chasing the title at Istora.

Women’s Doubles: Malaysia’s Pearly Tan/Thinaah Muralitharan return as top seeds.

Mixed Doubles: China’s rising stars Jiang Zhenbang/Wei Yaxin enter as the pair to beat.

Tournament Schedule

Matches typically start at 08:00 or 09:00 local time (WIB / GMT+7), pending final TV scheduling.

DateRoundDetailsStart TimeTuesday, Jan 20Qualification & R32Qualifying rounds and select Men’s/Women’s Doubles Round of 32.8:00 AMWednesday, Jan 21Round of 32Continuation of Round of 32 (Singles & remaining Doubles).8:00 AMThursday, Jan 22Round of 16All categories.9:00 AMFriday, Jan 23QuarterfinalsThe top 8 in all categories battle for podium spots.1:30 PMSaturday, Jan 24SemifinalsThe “Final Four” compete for a place in Sunday’s final.12:00 PMSunday, Jan 25FinalsChampionship matches for all five disciplines.1:00 PM

(Note: Schedule subject to change by BWF and local organizers.)

TV Broadcast Schedule

Only one court (Court 1) will be televised, starting with the Round of 16. The BWF TV YouTube channel will broadcast all matches on all courts from Tuesday to Sunday, except for territories where broadcast rights are unsold.

DateNo. of MatchesStart TimeThursday, Jan 2289:00 AMFriday, Jan 2381:30 PMSaturday, Jan 24812:00 PMSunday, Jan 2551:00 PM

Prize Money Distribution

The total prize pool for 2026 is US$ 500,000.

ResultSinglesDoubles (per pair)Winner$37,500$39,500Runner-up$19,000$19,000Semifinalist$7,250$7,000Quarterfinalist$3,000$3,625Last 16$1,750$1,875

Brief History

The Indonesia Masters was first held in 2010 as the Indonesia Open Grand Prix Gold. It was originally created to provide a second tier of international competition in Indonesia, complementing the premier Indonesia Open.

The tournament was upgraded to a Super 500 event in 2018 as part of the BWF World Tour restructuring. While it has been hosted in various cities including Samarinda, Palembang, Yogyakarta, and Malang, it found its spiritual home at the Istora Senayan in Jakarta in 2018. The venue is legendary for its steep seating and acoustic intensity, where the “Eaa… Eaa…” chants of the Indonesian fans create an intimidating atmosphere for visitors and a massive boost for local players.

2026 Thailand Masters
2026-01-27 00:00 - 2026-02-01 23:59 (Asia/Bangkok) | Nimibutr Stadium, 154 ถนน พระรามที่ ๑1 Wang Mai, Pathum Wan, Bangkok, 10330, Thailand
The HSBC BWF World Tour returns to Bangkok for the Princess Sirivannavari Thailand Masters 2026, a Super 300 event that promises high-octane action. Set against the vibrant backdrop of Bangkok, this tournament offers a crucial platform for rising stars and established players to claim early-season glory and valuable ranking points.

Tournament Essentials

Dates: January 27 – February 1, 2026

Venue: Nimibutr Stadium, Bangkok, Thailand

Level: HSBC BWF World Tour Super 300

Total Prize Money: US$250,000

Stars to Watch

The draws have revealed an exciting lineup across all five disciplines. Here are some of the key contenders vying for the title:

Men’s Singles: Top seed Loh Kean Yew (SGP) leads the field, looking to assert his dominance early in the year. He will face stiff competition from promising talents like Alwi Farhan (INA) and Justin Hoh (MAS), who are seeded second and sixth, respectively. Keep an eye on home favorite Kantaphon Wangcharoen (THA), whose matches are sure to electrify the local crowd.

Women’s Singles: Thailand’s own Supanida Katethong enters as the top seed, carrying the hopes of the host nation. She is joined by a strong international contingent, including Sung Shuo-yun (TPE) and Japan’s Hina Akechi, seeded 2nd and 3rd respectively.

Provisional Schedule (UTC+7)

Tuesday, Jan 27: Qualifying Rounds & First Round (MD/WD) – Starts 09:00 / 15:00

Wednesday, Jan 28: First Round (All Events) – Starts 09:00

Thursday, Jan 29: Second Round – Starts 12:00

Friday, Jan 30: Quarter-Finals – Starts 13:00

Saturday, Jan 31: Semi-Finals – Starts 12:00

Sunday, Feb 1: Finals – Starts 12:00

Prize Money Distribution

The total prize pool of US$250,000 is distributed as follows:

Singles (MS/WS):

Winner: $18,750

Runner-Up: $9,500

Semi-Finalist: $3,625

Quarter-Finalist: $1,500

Round of 16: $875

Doubles (MD/WD/XD) – Per Pair:

Winners: $19,750

Runners-Up: $9,500

Semi-Finalists: $3,500

Quarter-Finalists: $1,812.50

Round of 16: $937.50

(Note: A 5% tax deduction applies to all prize money winnings under Thai regulations).

TV Broadcast Schedule

Fans can catch the action live during the later stages of the tournament. The provisional broadcast schedule is:

Saturday, Jan 31 (Semi-Finals): 8 matches starting at 12:00

Sunday, Feb 1 (Finals): 5 matches starting at 12:00

2026 Champions

(To be updated after the tournament concludes)

Men’s Singles: TBD

Women’s Singles: TBD

Men’s Doubles: TBD

Women’s Doubles: TBD

Mixed Doubles: TBD

2026 Badminton Asia Team Championships
2026-02-03 00:00 - 2026-02-08 23:59 (Asia/Shanghai) | Qingdao Conson Gymnasium, No. 3 Yinchuan East Road, Laoshan District, Qingdao City, Shandong Province, 266071, China
Updated on October 12, 2025

The 2026 Badminton Asia Team Championships is a major continental badminton competition organized by Badminton Asia, bringing together the strongest national men’s and women’s teams from across Asia. The tournament serves not only as a prestigious team event in its own right, but also as a qualifying pathway to the 2026 BWF Thomas Cup and Uber Cup Finals, making it a crucial milestone in the international badminton calendar.

The 2026 edition is hosted in Qingdao, China, and features separate men’s and women’s team events contested over a six-day period. With traditional powerhouses such as China, Japan, Indonesia, South Korea, and Malaysia in action, the championships are expected to deliver high-intensity team battles and showcase Asia’s depth of badminton talent.

Table of Contents[Open][Close]Tournament OverviewVenueCompetition FormatGroup StageKnockout StageProvisional Tournament ScheduleParticipating TeamsParticipating Member AssociationsGroup DrawMen’s Team GroupsWomen’s Team GroupsSeeding and Team StrengthQualification for Thomas & Uber Cup FinalsChampions (To Be Updated)Legacy and Significance

Tournament Overview

Official name: Badminton Asia Team Championships 2026

Host city: Qingdao, Shandong, China

Dates: 3–8 February 2026

Venue: Qingdao Conson Gymnasium

Organizer: Badminton Asia

Host association: Chinese Badminton Association

Competition format: Men’s and Women’s Team Events

Qualification at stake: Top four teams in each category qualify for the BWF Thomas Cup and Uber Cup Finals

Venue

All matches are held at Qingdao Conson Gymnasium, located in the Laoshan District of Qingdao. The venue is equipped with four competition courts and six practice courts, allowing teams to train and compete within the same complex. February temperatures in Qingdao typically range between -5°C and 5°C, making it one of the colder Asian badminton hosts, particularly for teams from tropical regions .

Competition Format

The championships are played in two stages:

Group Stage

Teams are divided into four groups.

Each group follows a round-robin format.

All five matches in each tie are played:

Three singles

Two doubles

The top two teams from each group advance to the knockout stage.

Knockout Stage

Begins with the quarter-finals, followed by semi-finals and finals.

In knockout ties, play stops once a team secures three match wins.

Teams from the same group cannot meet again in the quarter-finals.

Each tie consists of:

Men’s Team: 3 men’s singles + 2 men’s doubles

Women’s Team: 3 women’s singles + 2 women’s doubles

No player may compete in more than one singles and one doubles match per tie .

Provisional Tournament Schedule

The official provisional timetable for the championships is as follows:

DateRoundStart TimeTuesday, 3 FebruaryGroup StageSession 1 – 11:00 amSession 2 – 5:00 pmWednesday, 4 FebruaryGroup StageSession 1 – 11:00 amSession 2 – 5:00 pmThursday, 5 FebruaryGroup StageSession 1 – 11:00 amSession 2 – 5:00 pmFriday, 6 FebruaryQuarter FinalsSession 1 – 10:00 amSession 2 – 5:00 pmSaturday, 7 FebruarySemi FinalsSession 1 – 10:00 amSession 2 – 5:00 pmSunday, 8 FebruaryFinalsSession 1 – 9:30 amSession 2 – 6:00 pm

The schedule remains subject to adjustment due to broadcast requirements or operational considerations .

Participating Teams

A total of 12 men’s teams and 11 women’s teams are entered for the 2026 championships.

Participating Member Associations

China

Chinese Taipei

Hong Kong China

India

Indonesia

Japan

Korea

Macau China (men only)

Malaysia

Myanmar

Singapore

Thailand

Group Draw

Men’s Team Groups

Group A: China, Thailand, Macau China

Group B: Chinese Taipei, Korea, Hong Kong China

Group C: Japan, India, Singapore

Group D: Indonesia, Malaysia, Myanmar

Women’s Team Groups

Group W: China, Malaysia, Hong Kong China

Group X: Japan, Indonesia, Chinese Taipei

Group Y: Thailand, India, Myanmar

Group Z: Korea, Singapore

Seeding and Team Strength

Team seeding for both the men’s and women’s events is determined by total BWF World Ranking points, calculated from:

The top three singles players

The top two doubles pairsfrom each team.

The seeding date for the 2026 championships is 6 January 2026, ensuring relatively current rankings are reflected in the draw. This system aims to balance groups while still rewarding teams with greater overall depth .

Qualification for Thomas & Uber Cup Finals

One of the tournament’s primary functions is qualification for the BWF Thomas Cup (men) and Uber Cup (women) Finals. The four semi-finalists from each category automatically qualify.

If the host nation or defending champions occupy qualifying positions, additional slots may be allocated based on continental world rankings, in accordance with BWF regulations .

Champions (To Be Updated)

This section will be updated after the conclusion of the tournament.

Men’s Team Champion: TBC

Women’s Team Champion: TBC

Runners-up: TBC

Semi-finalists: TBC

Legacy and Significance

The Badminton Asia Team Championships continues to grow in importance as Asia remains the sport’s strongest continent. The 2026 edition in Qingdao is expected to serve as a key benchmark ahead of major global events, offering insights into team depth, emerging players, and tactical trends in elite team badminton.

Once completed, the tournament’s results will play a significant role in shaping expectations for the upcoming Thomas & Uber Cup Finals, while also reinforcing Asia’s dominance in the global badminton landscape.

2026 Azerbaijan International
2026-02-03 00:00 - 2026-02-08 23:59 (Asia/Baku) | Politechnic University Sport Hall, Ayna Sultanova 13, Baku, Azerbaijan
Updated on October 12, 2025

Baku, the capital of Azerbaijan, is set to solidify its reputation as a global sports hub as it hosts the 2026 Azerbaijan International. Part of the Badminton Europe Elite Circuit, this International Challenge tournament will gather top-tier professional athletes and rising stars from across the globe. This event serves as a significant milestone for the region, especially following Baku’s designation as the World Capital of Sports for 2026.

Tournament Dates and Venue

The competition is scheduled to take place from February 3 to February 8, 2026. The designated battlefield for this prestigious event is the Politechnic University Sport Hall, located at Ayna Sultanova 13 in Baku. This facility is equipped to handle the high-octane requirements of international badminton, featuring four Yonex courts for the competition.

Prize Money Distribution

Athletes will be competing for a total prize pool of USD 20,000. The organizers have specified that the prize money will be paid in cash during the closing ceremony, with no taxes deducted. The distribution across the five categories (Men’s Singles, Women’s Singles, Men’s Doubles, Women’s Doubles, and Mixed Doubles) is as follows:

RankMS / WSMD / WD / XD (Per Pair)Winner$1,600$1,800Runner-up$960$1,200Semi-finalist$400$500Quarter-finalist$160–

Tournament Schedule

The tournament features a rigorous six-day schedule, starting with qualifying rounds and culminating in the grand finals:

February 3 (Tuesday): Qualifying rounds for all categories begin at 09:00.

February 4 (Wednesday): Completion of qualifying rounds and the start of the Main Draw.

February 5 (Thursday): Continuation of the Main Draw.

February 6 (Friday): Round of 16 matches starting at 10:00.

February 7 (Saturday): Quarter-finals followed by Semi-finals start from 10:00.

February 8 (Sunday): Final matches for all categories starting at 12:00.

Relevant Tournament Information

The Azerbaijan International 2026 is organized by a coalition including the Badminton World Federation (BWF), Badminton Europe (BEC), and the Azerbaijan Badminton Federation. To ensure a professional environment, BWF-certified referees and medical services, including on-court doctors and physiotherapists, will be available throughout the event.

For participants and fans, Baku offers a stunning backdrop where modern architectural wonders like the Heydar Aliyev Centre meet historical sites such as the Palace of the Shirvanshahs. With high stakes and world-class competition, this tournament is poised to be a highlight of the 2026 badminton calendar.

2026 European Men's and Women's Team Badminton Championships
2026-02-11 00:00 - 2026-02-15 23:59 (Europe/Istanbul) | Başakşehir Spor Kompleksi, Kayabaşı, Tınaztepe Sk. No:6, Başakşehir/İstanbul, 34494, Turkey
Updated on October 12, 2025

The wait is almost over. From February 11 to 15, 2026, the eyes of the badminton world will turn to the historic city of Istanbul, Türkiye, for the 2026 European Men’s & Women’s Team Championships (EMWTC).

This isn’t just another tournament; it is the ultimate test of depth, strategy, and national pride. Organized by the Türkiye Badminton Federation on behalf of Badminton Europe, the event will see the continent’s elite squads battle for the title of European Champions. With the official team line-ups now confirmed, the stage is set for a week of high-octane shuttling.

The Powerhouses: Can Anyone Dethrone Denmark?

Denmark enters the 2026 championships with their usual aura of dominance, but the rosters suggest they aren’t taking anything for granted.

The Men’s Squad: Led by world-class talent like Anders Antonsen and the formidable doubles pair of Kim Astrup and Anders Skaarup Rasmussen, the Danish men remain the team to beat. With depth provided by Rasmus Gemke and the rising Magnus Johannesen, they possess a balanced “total-team” threat.

The Women’s Squad: The Danish women are equally imposing, featuring the likes of Mia Blichfeldt, Line Højmark Kjærsfeldt, and the versatile Alexandra Bøje. Their experience in high-pressure team environments makes them the clear favorites to top the podium once again.

The Rising Tide: France and Germany

If there is a “changing of the guard” narrative to be found, look no further than France. The French men’s team is arguably at its strongest in history. With the Popov brothers (Toma Junior and Christo) and the sensational young talent Alex Lanier, France has the firepower to push Denmark to the absolute limit.

Germany also brings a robust contingent to Istanbul. On the women’s side, Yvonne Li continues to be a pillar of consistency, supported by a mix of experienced veterans like Isabel Lohau and hungry newcomers. The German men, led by doubles specialist Marvin Seidel, are perennial dark horses capable of upsetting any seed on a given day.

Host Nation Hopes: Türkiye’s Time to Shine

Playing on home soil brings a unique pressure, but for Türkiye, it’s an opportunity to showcase their rapid ascent in the sport. The Turkish fans are known for their vocal support, and the squad will be leaning into that energy.

The women’s team features national icon Neslihan Arin, whose experience at the highest levels of the BWF World Tour will be vital. Alongside Ozge Bayrak and Bengisu Ercetin, the Turkish women aim to leverage the “home-court advantage” to secure a historic medal finish. The men’s side, featuring Emre Lale and a host of young prospects, will look to disrupt the traditional European hierarchy.

Key Teams to Watch

CountryPlayers (Men)Key Players (Women)DenmarkAnders Antonsen, Kim Astrup, William Bøgebjerg, Rasmus Gemke, Ditlev Jaeger Holm, Magnus Johannesen, Christian Faust Kjær, Rasmus Kjær, Daniel Lundgaard, Anders Skaarup Rasmussen, Mads VestergaardNatasja P. Anthonisen, Mia Blichfeldt, Alexandra Bøje, Line Christophersen, Julie Dawall Jakobsen, Line Højmark Kjærsfeldt, Amalie Cecilie Kudsk, Amalie Magelund, Amalie Schulz, Kathrine Vang, Mette WergeFranceEloi Adam, Mael Cattoen, Thom Gicquel, Alex Lanier, Arnaud Merkle, Christo Popov, Toma Junior Popov, Lucas Renoir, Leo Rossi, Enogat RoyRomane Cloteaux-Foucault, Agathe Cuevas, Kathell Desmots-Chacun, Elsa Jacob, Margot Lambert, Leana Laurent, Rosy Oktavia Pancasari, Elena Phan, Camille Pognante, Anna Tatranova, Flavie ValletEnglandNadeem Dalvi, Alex Green, Callum Hemming, Harry Huang, Cholan Kayan, Ben Lane, Kalyan Manoj, Ethan Rose, Zach Russ, Sean Vendy—GermanyMalik Bourakkadi, Jonathan Dresp, Bjarne Geiss, Jones Ralfy Jansen, Matthias Kicklitz, Simon Krax, Kian-Yu Oei, Vasudevan Sanjeevi Padmanabhan, Justin Seibel, Marvin Seidel, Aaron Sonnenschein, Jan Colin VoelkerLisa Paula Bonnemann, Selin Hübsch, Stine Kuespert, Amelie Lehmann, Yvonne Li, Isabel Lohau, Leona Michalski, Emma Moszczynski, Thuc Phuong Nguyen, Katharina Nilges, Miranda Wilson

Tournament Schedule

The championships will follow a rigorous five-day schedule, transitioning from group-stage battles to the high-stakes knockout rounds. All times are local (Istanbul).

Group Stage: Wednesday, 11 February – Friday, 13 February

During the first three days, the competition will focus on the group stages to determine the top contenders for the knockout phase. Each day features two primary sessions:

10:30: Women’s Team Group Stage (4 matches per session)

14:30: Men’s Team Group Stage (4 matches per session)

Semifinals: Saturday, 14 February

The intensity ramps up on Saturday as the remaining teams battle for a spot in the finals. The semifinals are split into three distinct sessions:

10:30: Women’s Team Semifinals (2 matches)

14:00: Men’s Team Semifinal (1 match)

17:30: Men’s Team Semifinal (1 match)

Finals: Sunday, 15 February

The tournament concludes on Sunday with the crowning of the European Champions.

10:00: Women’s Team Final

14:30: Men’s Team Final

Note: The draw for the final stage (knockout rounds) will be conducted and published on 13 February following the conclusion of the group stage matches.

How to Follow the Action

For fans unable to make it to the shores of the Bosphorus, Badminton Europe has ensured comprehensive coverage:

Live Streaming: Every smash, drop, and lift will be broadcast live on BadmintonEurope.tv.

Official App: Download the Sportity app and use the password 2026EMWTC for real-time schedules, results, and official announcements.

Final Stage Draw: While the group stages were set in December, the draw for the high-stakes final stage will take place on February 13, determining the path to the trophy.

2026 German Open
2026-02-24 00:00 - 2026-03-01 23:59 (Europe/Berlin) | Westenergie Sporthalle, An den Sportstätten 6, Mülheim an der Ruhr, 45468, Germany
Updated on October 12, 2025

As the badminton world looks ahead to the 2026 season, one of the most prestigious stops on the European leg of the tour returns to Germany. The Yonex German Open 2026, a prominent fixture of the HSBC BWF World Tour Super 300, is set to bring world-class action to Mülheim an der Ruhr. With a rich history and a field packed with emerging talent and established veterans, this year’s edition promises to be a thrilling showcase of speed, skill, and endurance.

Tournament Venue and Dates

The 2026 championships will be held from February 24 to March 1, 2026. For another year, the Westenergie Sporthalle in Mülheim an der Ruhr will serve as the battleground for the world’s best players. Known for its intimate atmosphere and passionate fans, the venue has long been the home of this historic event.

Expected Stars to Watch

The Men’s Singles (MS) acceptance list reveals a highly competitive field led by some of Asia and Europe’s top-ranked athletes. Based on the initial M&Q report, fans should keep a close eye on the following stars:

Li Shifeng (China): Ranked #5 in the seeding ranking, he enters as one of the heavy favorites for the title.

Chou Tien-chen (Chinese Taipei): The veteran campaigner continues to be a force on the world stage, ranked #6.

Christo Popov (France): Leading the European charge at #7, Popov is known for his explosive style.

Loh Kean Yew (Singapore): The former World Champion remains a major threat and a fan favorite.

Lakshya Sen (India): A dangerous competitor who has proven he can beat anyone on his day.

Lee Zi Jia (Malaysia): Despite appearing in the qualifying list, the Malaysian star remains one of the most watchable players in the circuit.

Tournament Schedule

The tournament follows a traditional six-day format:

DateEventRoundCourtsDoors OpenStart TimeTuesday 24 Feb 2026MS/WS/MD/WD/XD QualificationQualification408:3009:00Tuesday 24 Feb 2026MD/WD (Except Qualifiers)R32––Not before 14:00Wednesday 25 Feb 2026MS/WS/XD; MD/WD (Qualifiers only)R32409:3010:00Thursday 26 Feb 2026All EventsR16412:3013:00Friday 27 Feb 2026All EventsQuarterfinals314:0015:00Saturday 28 Feb 2026All EventsSemifinals210:3012:00Sunday 01 Mar 2026All EventsFinals110:3012:00

Notes:

MS = Men’s Singles, WS = Women’s Singles, MD = Men’s Doubles, WD = Women’s Doubles, XD = Mixed Doubles.

The “Courts” column shows the number of courts in use for that session.

Prize Money Distribution

The Yonex German Open 2026 offers a total prize purse of US$250,000. The distribution for the top performers is as follows:

EventWinnerFinalistSemi-finalsQuarter-finalsLast 16Singles$18,750$9,500$3,625$1,500$875Doubles$19,750$9,500$3,500$1,812.50$937.50

Note: All amounts are in dollars. Prize money is subject to a 15% German tax levy and a subsequent 5.5% Solidarity Tax.

A Brief History and Legacy

The German Open is one of the oldest and most respected tournaments in badminton history. Organized by the Vermarktungsgesellschaft Badminton Deutschland (VBD) for the German Badminton Association, it has served as a critical platform for players to gain points and prestige. As a Super 300 event, it often serves as a “springboard” for rising stars looking to break into the top tier of the BWF World Tour.

As Mülheim an der Ruhr prepares to welcome the international badminton community once again, the 2026 Yonex German Open stands ready to add another golden chapter to its long-standing legacy.

2026 Singapore International Challenge
2026-02-24 00:00 - 2026-03-01 23:59 (Asia/Singapore) | SBH East Coast @ Expo, 1 Expo Dr, Carkpark J, 486150, Singapore
The badminton world sets its sights on Singapore as the SBH Singapore International Challenge 2026 prepares to kick off. Sanctioned by the Badminton World Federation (BWF) and Badminton Asia, this event promises a week of high-stakes competition as players from around the globe vie for ranking points and a share of the prize pool.

Tournament Dates and Venue

The tournament is scheduled to run from Tuesday, 24th February to Sunday, 1st March 2026. All matches will be held at the Singapore Badminton Hall (SBH) East Coast @ Expo, located at 2 Changi South Ave 1, Singapore 486149.

Competition Schedule

The event follows a standard progression from preliminary rounds to the championship finals:

DayDateProgramStart TimeMonday23rd FebruaryTeam Managers Meeting & Technical Officials Briefing15:00 / 17:30 Tuesday24th FebruaryPreliminary Rounds09:00 Wednesday25th FebruaryPreliminary Rounds09:00 Thursday26th FebruaryPreliminary Rounds09:00 Friday27th FebruaryQuarter Finals09:00 Saturday28th FebruarySemi Finals09:00 Sunday1st MarchFinals12:00

Note: The schedule is tentative and subject to change due to TV coverage or other reasons at the Referee’s discretion.

Prize Money Distribution

A total prize purse of USD $30,000 (excluding 15% tax) will be distributed to top performers. Winners and runners-up will also be awarded medals. The prize money for each category is distributed as follows:

PlacementMen’s/Women’s Singles (Per Player)Doubles/Mixed Doubles (Per Pair)ChampionUSD $2,400USD $2,400Runner-UpUSD $1,440USD $1,440Semi-FinalistsUSD $600USD $600Quarter-FinalistsUSD $240USD $240

Essential Tournament Information

Entry Requirements: Players must be members of a BWF-affiliated Association. Each player can participate in a maximum of three categories: one Singles, one Doubles, and one Mixed Doubles event.

Format of Play: Matches will follow the Rally Point System (3×21 points) in accordance with BWF Laws of Badminton.

Mandatory Clothing: Player names are mandatory on clothing from the first day. From the Quarter Finals onward, doubles partners must wear identical colors, and opposing sides must wear significantly different colors.

Accommodation: The official tournament hotel is Dorsett Changi City Singapore.

Transportation: No transport is provided from the airport to the hotel. Additionally, since the venue is within walking distance of the official hotel, transport will only be provided in the event of extreme weather.

2026 All England Open
2026-03-03 00:00 - 2026-03-08 23:59 (Europe/London) | Utilita Arena Birmingham, King Edwards Rd, Birmingham B1 2AA, United Kingdom
Updated on October 12, 2025

The All England Open Badminton Championships is widely considered the most prestigious badminton tournament in the world outside of the Olympics and World Championships. As the oldest tournament in the sport’s history, holding a title here is a career-defining achievement for any shuttler. The 2026 edition, held from March 3 to March 8, lived up to its billing as a spectacle of elite badminton, serving as a cornerstone of the BWF World Tour Super 1000 calendar.

As the dust settles at the Utilita Arena Birmingham, the 2026 season has been irrevocably shaped by the results of this legendary event. Players fought not just for the massive US$1,450,000 prize purse, but for the immortality that comes with lifting the silver trophy. This year’s tournament was defined by shifting dynasties, as perennial favorites fell and new heroes emerged from Chinese Taipei, China, and South Korea.

2026 All England Champions & Final Results

The final day of action provided a masterclass in tactical badminton. Below are the official results and the new kings and queens of Birmingham:

CategoryChampion(s)Runner-upFinal ScoreMen’s SinglesLin Chun-yi (TPE)Lakshya Sen (IND)21-15, 22-20Women’s SinglesWang Zhiyi (CHN)An Se-young (KOR)21-15, 21-19Men’s DoublesKim Won-ho / Seo Seung-jae (KOR)Aaron Chia / Soh Wooi Yik (MAS)18-21, 21-12, 21-19Women’s DoublesLiu Shengshu / Tan Ning (CHN)Baek Ha-na / Lee So-hee (KOR)21-18, 21-12Mixed DoublesYe Hong-wei / Nicole Gonzales Chan (TPE)Thom Gicquel / Delphine Delrue (FRA)21-19, 21-18

Tournament Overview: The 2026 Storyline

The 2026 All England will be remembered as the “Tournament of Breakthroughs.” Most notably, Chinese Taipei secured two titles, including a historic first-ever Men’s Singles crown. China matched them with two titles in the women’s disciplines, while South Korea managed to defend their Men’s Doubles throne.

Men’s Singles: The Rise of Lin Chun-yi

Entering the tournament as the world No. 11, Lin Chun-yi was not the primary favorite. However, “The Left-handed King” displayed a level of explosive power and net-play finesse that dismantled the bracket. In the final, he faced India’s Lakshya Sen, who was looking to end India’s long title drought in Birmingham. Lin’s victory in straight games was a clinical performance, making him the first player from his nation to win this specific category.

Women’s Singles: Wang Zhiyi Dethrones the Queen

In the Women’s Singles, Wang Zhiyi achieved what many thought impossible: stopping the “An Se-young Era.” The defending champion and world No. 1, An Se-young, entered the final with a 36-match winning streak. Wang, who had lost her previous ten encounters against An, played a near-flawless tactical match to win in two games. This victory re-established China’s dominance in the singles discipline and proved that even the most consistent champions are vulnerable to high-pressure precision.

The Doubles Dominance

The doubles categories saw a blend of successful defenses and new arrivals. Kim Won-ho and Seo Seung-jae became the first Men’s Doubles pair in decades to successfully defend their All England title, surviving a three-game thriller against Malaysia’s Aaron Chia and Soh Wooi Yik.

In the Women’s Doubles, the youthful power of Liu Shengshu and Tan Ning was too much for the experienced Korean pair of Baek and Lee. Meanwhile, the Mixed Doubles final saw Ye Hong-wei and Nicole Gonzales Chan claim a historic victory over France’s Gicquel and Delrue, marking a massive milestone for badminton in Chinese Taipei.

Quick Facts

FeatureDetailTournament NameYonex All England Open Badminton Championships 2026DatesMarch 3 – March 8, 2026LevelBWF World Tour Super 1000Host CityBirmingham, EnglandVenueUtilita Arena BirminghamTotal Prize MoneyUS$ 1,450,000SurfaceYonex Court Mats (Indoor Hard)

Prize Money & Ranking Points

As a Super 1000 event, the stakes were incredibly high for the players’ world rankings and bank accounts. The 2026 distribution followed the elite BWF tiering:

ResultSingles (Per Player)Doubles (Per Pair)Points (BWF)Winner$101,500$107,30012,000Runner-up$49,300$50,75010,200Semifinalist$20,300$20,3008,400Quarterfinalist$7,975$9,062.506,600Round of 16$4,350$4,712.504,800Round of 32$1,450$1,4503,000

A Brief History: Why It Matters

Established in 1899, the All England Open is the world’s oldest badminton tournament. Before the BWF World Championships began in 1977, winning the All England was universally considered winning the “World Championship.”

Even today, it retains a mystic aura. It was held at the Wembley Arena for decades before moving to Birmingham in 1994. The tournament has seen legends like Rudy Hartono (who won 8 titles), Lin Dan, and Lee Chong Wei grace its courts. For players, the All England is “The One to Win.” The prestige of the white trophy, the history of the venue, and the knowledgeable crowd make it unique.

The 2026 edition proved that while the names on the trophy change, the prestige of the “All England Champion” title remains the ultimate benchmark of greatness in the sport of badminton.

2026 Swiss Open
2026-03-10 00:00 - 2026-03-15 23:59 (Europe/Zurich) | St. Jakobshalle, St. Jakobs-Strasse 390, Basel, 4052, Switzerland
Updated on October 12, 2025

The international badminton circuit returned to the heart of Europe as the Yonex Swiss Open 2026 took center stage at the historic St. Jakobshalle. As a vital part of the HSBC BWF World Tour Super 300 series, this prestigious tournament continued its long-standing tradition of bringing world-class athleticism to Switzerland. With a significant prize pool and crucial ranking points on the line, the 2026 edition delivered high-stakes drama and elite competition that kept fans on the edge of their seats until the final point was won.

2026 Champions Gallery

The final day of competition on Sunday, March 15, saw a mix of dominant performances and nail-biting upsets. Here are the athletes who stood atop the podium in Basel:

Men’s Singles (MS): Yushi Tanaka (Japan)

Women’s Singles (WS): Supanida Katethong (Thailand)

Men’s Doubles (MD): Lee Fang-chih & Lee Fang-cen (Chinese Taipei)

Women’s Doubles (WD): Li Yijing & Wang Yiduo (China)

Mixed Doubles (XD): Cheng Xing & Zhang Chi (China)

Tournament Venue and Atmosphere

The action unfolded from 10 to 15 March 2026. For another year, the St. Jakobshalle in Basel served as the battleground for the world’s best shuttlers. Known for its exceptional facilities and vibrant atmosphere, the venue featured the signature green court mats for the competition area. Throughout the week, fans filled the stands, with doors opening as early as 08:30 on the opening day to catch the very first serves of the qualification rounds.

Prize Money Distribution

A total prize fund of USD $250,000 was at stake in Basel. The distribution followed BWF statutes, with a 20% withholding tax applied to all winnings. The breakdown for the top finishers was as follows:

CategoryWinnerRunner-upSemifinalistQuarterfinalistLast 16Men’s/Women’s Singles$18,750$9,500$3,625$1,500$875Doubles (per pair)$19,750$9,500$3,500$1,812$937

(Note: Doubles prizes are awarded per pair).

Path to the Podium: Tournament Schedule

The tournament followed a progressive knockout format across six days of intense play:

Tuesday, 10 March: The tournament kicked off with Qualification rounds for all disciplines, followed by the Round of 32 for Men’s and Women’s Doubles in the afternoon.

Wednesday, 11 March: The Round of 32 continued for all events. This day was particularly crucial for finalists from the preceding All England Open 2026, who were scheduled later to allow for travel and recovery.

Thursday, 12 March: The “Sweet 16” round took place across four courts, narrowing the field significantly.

Friday, 13 March: Quarterfinal action saw the intensity rise, with matches split into two high-energy sessions.

Saturday, 14 March: The pressure peaked during the Semifinals as the remaining contenders battled for a spot in the final showcase.

Sunday, 15 March: The grand Finals took place on a single show court, followed by the presentation ceremonies where the 2026 champions were officially crowned.

2026 Orléans Masters
2026-03-17 00:00 - 2026-03-22 23:59 (Europe/Paris) | Palais des Sports, 14 Rue Eugène Vignat, Orléans, 45000, France
Updated on October 12, 2025

As the badminton world looks toward the heart of France, the 2026 Orléans Masters Badminton presented by VICTOR is set to captivate fans from March 17 to 22, 2026. Hosted at the historic Palais des Sports Jean Ros in Orléans, this HSBC BWF World Tour Super 300 event continues its legacy of showcasing elite international talent.

Tournament Overview and Venue

The Palais des Sports Jean Ros, situated at 14 rue Eugène Vignat, will once again serve as the battlefield for over 200 matches featuring players from more than 40 nations. The arena’s main hall, standing 16 meters high, can accommodate up to 3,000 spectators, creating a “super-charged” atmosphere for both local fans and international visitors.

Tournament Schedule

The six-day event follows the standard high-stakes progression of a BWF World Tour tournament:

Tuesday, March 17 (09:00): Qualifying rounds for Men’s Singles (MS), Women’s Singles (WS), and Mixed Doubles (XD) begin in the morning. Later in the afternoon at 16:00, the initial Main Draw matches (Round of 32) for Men’s Doubles (MD) and Women’s Doubles (WD) commence.

Wednesday, March 18 (09:00): The Round of 32 continues for the full Main Draw across all categories, including the remaining singles and mixed doubles qualifiers.

Thursday, March 19 (12:00): The Round of 16 begins at noon as the competition intensifies for those vying for a spot in the later rounds.

Friday, March 20 (10:00 & 17:00): The Quarter-finals are split into two sessions, with the first starting at 10:00 and the second evening session beginning at 17:00.

Saturday, March 21 (10:00 & 17:00): Semi-finals follow a similar two-session format, with matches starting at 10:00 and 17:00.

Sunday, March 22 (11:00): The championship concludes with the Finals for all five categories (Men’s Singles, Women’s Singles, Men’s Doubles, Women’s Doubles, and Mixed Doubles) starting at 11:00.

Prize Money and Ranking Points

With a total prize pool of US$250,000, the Orléans Masters offers significant financial rewards and crucial ranking points. The distribution for winners and finalists is as follows:

Singles (Men’s & Women’s): The winner will receive $18,000, while the finalist takes home $9,120.

Doubles (Men’s, Women’s & Mixed): The winning pairs will earn $18,960, with the finalists receiving $9,120.

Beyond the prize money, players compete for 7,000 ranking points awarded to winners, making it a vital stop for shuttlers looking to climb the BWF World Rankings.

TV Broadcast and Digital Access

For fans unable to attend in person, the Orléans Masters provides extensive coverage options. The international TV broadcast schedule highlights the final two days of competition:

Saturday, March 21 (Semi-finals): 5 matches starting at 10:00 and 3 matches starting at 17:00.

Sunday, March 22 (Finals): 5 championship matches starting at 11:00.

Players to Watch

The 2026 edition is expected to feature a mix of established stars and rising talents. Notable names mentioned in early seeds and entries include French favorite Alex Lanier, along with international contenders like Chou Tien-chen, Nozomi Okuhara, and the doubles pair Kim Astrup/Anders Skaarup Rasmussen. As the ninth tournament of the 2026 BWF World Tour, the Orléans Masters remains an unmissable fixture for the global badminton community.

Entry List

Draws

2026 European Badminton Championships
2026-04-06 00:00 - 2026-04-12 23:59 (Europe/Madrid) | Carolina Marin Sports Palace, Av. de las Fuerzas Armadas, Huelva, 21007, Spain
The badminton world turns its eyes to Huelva, Spain, as the 2026 European Badminton Championships prepare to take center stage. From April 6 to April 12, 2026, the continent’s finest athletes will battle for supremacy in a tournament that defines careers and determines the hierarchy of European badminton. Organized by the Spanish Badminton Federation, this edition promises a unique atmosphere, blending high-stakes competition with the passionate sporting culture of Andalusia.

Tournament Venue and Atmosphere

The championships will be hosted at the prestigious Carolina Marin Sports Palace in Huelva. Named after Spain’s most iconic badminton figure, the venue is a fortress of the sport. While the namesake herself will not be competing this year as she focuses on recovery and international commitments, her spirit permeates the arena. The facility is equipped with three world-class courts designed to give fans an intimate and high-octane viewing experience.

Huelva is no stranger to major events, having successfully hosted the 2018 European Championships and the 2021 World Championships. For the 2026 edition, the city is expected to welcome thousands of traveling fans, particularly from badminton strongholds like Denmark, France, and Germany.

Tournament Schedule

The event follows a rigorous seven-day knockout format. Below is the provisional schedule for the week:

DateTime (Local)Rounds / Disciplines6 April16:00MS & WS (1/32) + XD (1/16)7 April09:00MS & WS (1/32) + MD, WD (1/16) & XD (1/8)8 April09:00MS & WS (1/16) + WD (1/8)9 April09:00MS, WS & MD (1/8) + WD & XD Quarterfinals10 April13:00MS, WS & MD Quarterfinals + WD & XD Semifinals11 April14:00MS, WS & MD Semifinals + WD & XD Finals12 April12:00MS, WS & MD Finals

Note: The schedule is designed to build momentum, culminating in a “Super Sunday” where the premier singles and men’s doubles titles will be decided.

Prize Money and Ranking Points

As the highest-rated continental tournament in Europe, the 2026 Championships offer significant BWF World Ranking points, equivalent to a BWF World Tour Super 500 event. While the European Championships traditionally do not offer a cash prize pool comparable to the commercial World Tour (often relying on national federation bonuses for athletes), the “prestige” and the 9,200 ranking points awarded to the winners are invaluable for Olympic and World Championship qualification cycles.

Stars to Watch: The New Guard and Established Icons

With the legendary Viktor Axelsen and Carolina Marin absent from the entry list, the draws are wide open, creating a fascinating “power vacuum” that several hungry contenders are eager to fill.

Men’s Singles: Antonsen’s Time to Shine?

In the absence of Axelsen, Anders Antonsen (Denmark) enters as the heavy favorite. Currently ranked World No. 3, Antonsen has spent much of 2025 and early 2026 proving he is more than just a “silver medalist.” His tactical variety and “bad boy” flair make him a must-watch.

However, he faces stiff competition from the French brothers, Christo Popov and Toma Junior Popov. Christo, the younger of the two, has recently surged into the World Top 10, winning the 2026 German Open. His left-handed deception and relentless speed pose a threat to any seed.

Women’s Singles: A Danish-Scottish Duel

With Marin out, the Women’s Singles crown is a toss-up. Mia Blichfeldt (Denmark) is the top seed, looking to reclaim the title she won in 2019. Her primary challenger is likely to be Kirsty Gilmour (Scotland), a veteran whose grit and court coverage remain world-class. Watch out also for Line Kjærsfeldt (Denmark), who has found a second wind in her career this season.

Men’s Doubles: The Danish Wall

The Men’s Doubles category remains a Danish stronghold. The pair of Kim Astrup and Anders Skaarup Rasmussen are the entertainers of the circuit. Known for their “mind games” and clinical net play, they are the pair to beat. Challenging them will be the English duo Ben Lane and Sean Vendy, whose high-intensity flat game can upset the rhythm of the top seeds.

Mixed Doubles: French Flair

France’s Thom Gicquel and Delphine Delrue have been the standard-bearers for European Mixed Doubles for years. Having reached the Top 5 in the world, they are the favorites to take gold in Huelva. Their biggest hurdle will be the rising Danish and German pairs who have shown significant improvement in the early months of 2026.

Why This Tournament Matters

The 2026 European Championships represent more than just medals; they are a litmus test for the “Post-Axelsen/Marin” era. As the stars of the last decade begin to transition, Huelva offers a glimpse into the future of European badminton. With three courts of non-stop action and a crowd known for its vocal support, the Carolina Marin Sports Palace is set to witness history.

Whether it is the tactical brilliance of Antonsen or the emergence of a new French dynasty, the week of April 6–12 will be the definitive moment of the 2026 European badminton season.

2026 Badminton Asia Championships
2026-04-07 00:00 - 2026-04-12 23:59 (Asia/Shanghai) | Ningbo Olympic Sports Center, No. 1280, Yunfei Road, Jiangbei District, Ningbo City, Zhejiang Province, China
The continent’s finest shuttlers are set to descend upon the “Olympic City” of Ningbo as the 2026 Badminton Asia Championships (BAC) returns for another high-stakes edition. As one of the most prestigious individual events on the badminton calendar, the 2026 championships promise a week of world-class intensity, carrying significant weight for world rankings and continental bragging rights.

Organized by Badminton Asia and hosted by the Chinese Badminton Association, the event serves as a focal point for the sport’s powerhouses—China, Indonesia, Japan, South Korea, and Malaysia—to crown the true kings and queens of Asian badminton.

Tournament Date and Venue

The 2026 championships will take place during Week 15 of the BWF calendar, spanning six days of elite competition from April 7th (Tuesday) to April 12th (Sunday), 2026.

For the third consecutive year, the prestigious Ningbo Olympic Sports Center Gymnasium in Zhejiang Province, China, will serve as the battleground. This state-of-the-art facility is renowned for its world-class infrastructure, capable of hosting thousands of fans in an electric atmosphere.

Venue: Ningbo Olympic Sports Center Gymnasium

Address: No. 1280, Yunfei Road, Jiangbei District, Ningbo City, China

Courts: 4 Competition Courts

Tournament Schedule

The event follows a rigorous knockout format. While the Team Managers Meeting and Umpires Briefing take place on Monday, April 6th, the on-court action begins Tuesday morning.

2026 Badminton Asia Championships Semifinal Preview and Schedule

DateTime (Local)RoundApril 7 (Tue)09:00Qualification & Mixed Doubles PreliminariesApril 8 (Wed)09:00Preliminaries (Round of 32)April 9 (Thu)11:00Preliminaries (Round of 16)April 10 (Fri)11:00Quarter-FinalsApril 11 (Sat)10:00 & 17:00Semi-FinalsApril 12 (Sun)14:00Championship Finals

Note: The schedule is subject to change at the discretion of the Referee, particularly to accommodate television coverage.

Prize Money Structure

A total prize purse of USD 550,000 is on the line, distributed across all five categories. This substantial fund reflects the tournament’s status as a top-tier continental event. Please note that all winnings are subject to a 20% local tax.

Singles (Men’s & Women’s)

Per Player

Champion: US$ 38,500

Runner-up: US$ 18,700

Semi-finalists: US$ 7,700

Quarter-finalists: US$ 3,025

Last 16: US$ 1,650

Last 32: US$ 550

Doubles (Men’s, Women’s & Mixed)

Per Pair

Champion: US$ 40,700

Runner-up: US$ 19,250

Semi-finalists: US$ 7,700

Quarter-finalists: US$ 3,437.50

Last 16: US$ 1,787.50

Last 32: US$ 550

Stars to Watch

As of early 2026, the Asian circuit is more competitive than ever. Here are the titans expected to dominate the courts in Ningbo:

Men’s Singles: The Battle of the Titans

The spotlight shines brightly on China’s Shi Yuqi, who entered 2026 ranked as the World No. 1. However, he faces a massive challenge from Thailand’s Kunlavut Vitidsarn, the reigning world-beater who recently overtook the top spot in March 2026. Fans should also keep an eye on India’s Lakshya Sen, fresh off a giant-killing run at the All England Open, and the ever-dangerous Jonatan Christie of Indonesia.

Women’s Singles: The “Queen” vs. The Field

South Korea’s An Se-young remains the woman to beat. Having maintained a stranglehold on the No. 1 ranking throughout 2025 and into 2026, her defensive mastery will be tested by China’s Chen Yufei and Japan’s Akane Yamaguchi. This category is expected to be a tactical masterclass in endurance.

The Doubles Powerhouses

Men’s Doubles: The Chinese pair of Liang Weikeng and Wang Chang will look to defend their home turf against the lightning-fast rotations of Malaysian and Indonesian pairs.

Women’s Doubles: South Korea’s Baek Ha-na and Lee So-hee are currently the pair to watch, having secured the World Tour Finals title at the end of last season. They will face stiff opposition from the deep roster of Chinese and Japanese duos.

Mixed Doubles: This remains a stronghold for China, with veteran pairings often finding their best form in front of the Ningbo crowd.

Event Entries and Draw

The competition features a limited and elite field to ensure the highest quality of play. Each category (Men’s Singles, Women’s Singles, and all Doubles) allows for a Main Draw of 28, with an additional 4 qualifiers emerging from a 12-slot qualifying draw.

The 2026 Badminton Asia Championships is more than just a tournament; it is a preview of the power shift in global badminton. With Ningbo’s history of hosting impeccable events, April 2026 is set to be a landmark month for fans worldwide.

2026 Thomas Cup
2026-04-24 00:00 - 2026-05-03 23:59 (Europe/Copenhagen) | Forum Horsens, Langmarksvej 53, Horsens, 8700, Denmark
The 2026 Thomas Cup marks the 34th edition of the world’s most prestigious men’s team badminton championship. Hosted by Badminton Denmark, this edition brings the “World Cup of Badminton” to the city of Horsens. As the biennial event returns to European soil, the stakes are higher than ever, with defending champions China looking to maintain their dominance while a resurgent France and a determined Danish host squad aim to disrupt the traditional Asian stronghold.

Tournament Date and Venue

The championship is scheduled to take place over 10 days of high-octane action, from Friday, 24th April to Sunday, 3rd May 2026.

Host City: Horsens, Denmark

Competition Venue: Forum Horsens

Official Website: www.denmark2026.dk

Tickets: Available at denmark2026.dk/tickets/

Forum Horsens will be equipped with the Instant Review System (IRS) on Court 1 and Court 2 to ensure the highest level of officiating accuracy for the world’s top players.

Tournament Schedule

The 2026 Thomas Cup follows a rigorous schedule, beginning with a six-day group stage followed by a high-stakes knockout phase.

DateDayRoundSession Times24 – 27 AprilDays 1–4Group Stage08:30 & 18:3028 – 29 AprilDays 5–6Group Stage (Final Ties)10:00 & 18:00/18:301 May 2026Day 8Thomas Cup Quarterfinals10:00 & 18:002 May 2026Day 9Thomas Cup Semifinals18:003 May 2026Day 10Thomas Cup Final18:00

Note: The Knockout Draw for the Thomas Cup will take place on Thursday, 30th April 2026, at 10:30 CET in the Forum Horsens Media Centre, once the group rankings are finalized.

Points on Offer

The Thomas Cup is a Premier BWF event. While it is a team tournament, players earn BWF World Ranking points based on the average strength of the opponents they defeat and their team’s final standing. These points are crucial for maintaining seeding in individual World Tour events and the upcoming World Championships.

Finishing PositionRanking Points (Per Player)Winner12,000Runner-up10,200Semifinalists8,400Quarterfinalists6,600

The Prestige Factor: A Tournament Without Prize Money

Unlike the BWF World Tour events where players compete for multimillion-dollar purses, the BWF Thomas Cup is a unique fixture on the international calendar for one specific reason: it offers no prize money.

Whether a nation lifts the trophy or exits in the group stages, there are no financial payouts from the BWF to the participating teams or individual players. This tradition underscores the Thomas Cup’s status as a tournament defined purely by national pride, honor, and historical legacy.

Why Do the Stars Still Compete?

Given the absence of a prize pool, the motivation for the world’s elite players to travel to Horsens remains high due to several key factors:

World Ranking Points: As noted in the points breakdown, the Thomas Cup offers significant BWF ranking points (up to 12,000 for winners). These are vital for qualifying for the World Tour Finals and maintaining top seeding in individual tournaments.

National Incentives: While the BWF does not provide prize money, many national federations and governments (such as those of Indonesia, Malaysia, and India) often award substantial private bonuses or life-long pensions to their athletes for winning the title.

Badminton Immortality: In the badminton world, winning a Thomas Cup medal is considered a career-defining achievement, often held in higher regard than winning multiple Open titles.

“The Thomas Cup is played for the flag, not the paycheck. It is the one week every two years where the world’s best prioritize collective glory over individual gain.”

Qualified Teams & Group Draw

Sixteen nations have qualified through continental championships and world team rankings. This year’s draw has produced several “Groups of Death,” particularly involving the rising European powers.

Group A: The Heavyweights

China (Defending Champions)

India (2022 Champions)

Canada

Australia

Group A features a mouth-watering rematch between the two most recent champions, China and India. While Canada and Australia provide spirited competition, the battle for the top seed in this group will likely be a tactical masterclass between the depth of China and the top-heavy strength of India.

Group B: The Tactical Battle

Japan

Malaysia

England

Finland

Japan enters as the top seed in this group, but they face a dangerous Malaysia team known for peaking during team events. England and Finland represent the European contingent here, with Finland accepting a reallocated spot after Germany declined.

Group C: The Scandinavian Showdown

Chinese Taipei

Denmark (Hosts)

South Korea

Sweden

The host nation, Denmark, leads Group C. They face a daunting task against Chinese Taipei, led by veteran stars, and a South Korean team that recently found success in the Asian Team Championships. Sweden rounds out the group, setting up a Nordic derby against the hosts.

Group D: The Group of Death

Indonesia

France

Thailand

Algeria

This is undoubtedly the most difficult group to predict. France enters as the 5th seed globally after their historic win at the 2026 European Team Championships. They must navigate past the powerhouse Indonesia and a Thailand squad boasting the current World No. 1 in singles.

Stars to Watch

The 2026 Thomas Cup features a “who’s who” of world badminton. With the tournament serving as a critical barometer for team strength, every nation is fielding their strongest possible rosters.

The Singles Titans

Kunlavut Vitidsarn (Thailand): The current World No. 1 and reigning World Champion. His defensive mastery and tactical patience make him nearly impossible to beat in a team format where every point counts.

Shi Yuqi (China): The veteran leader of the defending champions. His experience and lethal attacking play remain the backbone of the Chinese squad.

Anders Antonsen (Denmark): Carrying the hopes of the home crowd. Antonsen has been in scintillating form in early 2026 and will look to use the Horsens atmosphere to his advantage.

Jonatan Christie (Indonesia): A team-event specialist. “Jojo” has a history of delivering clutch wins for Indonesia and remains one of the most physically imposing players on tour.

Alex Lanier & Christo Popov (France): The “New Wave” of European badminton. Both are ranked in the world’s top 10 and represent France’s best chance at a historic podium finish.

Lakshya Sen (India): Following a final appearance at the All England 2026, Sen is the spearhead for an Indian team looking to reclaim the magic of their 2022 victory.

The Doubles Powerhouses: Elite Pairs to Watch

While singles players often grab the headlines, the Thomas Cup is frequently decided by the strength of the doubles pairings. In 2026, the field is topped by a mix of disciplined veterans and explosive young duos. Here are the top five ranked pairs heading into the tournament:

RankNamesNationTotal Points1Kim Won-ho / Seo Seung-jaeSouth Korea121,2552Aaron Chia / Soh Wooi YikMalaysia97,3503Liang Weikeng / Wang ChangChina85,3764Satwiksairaj Rankireddy / Chirag ShettyIndia84,5185Fajar Alfian / Muhammad Shohibul FikriIndonesia82,790

Scouting the Contenders

The South Korean Wall (Rank 1): Kim Won-ho and Seo Seung-jae have established themselves as the gold standard of consistency. With over 121,000 points from just 15 tournaments, their efficiency is staggering. For South Korea to progress in Group C, this pair must remain undefeated.

The Malaysian Backbone (Rank 2): Aaron Chia and Soh Wooi Yik are the emotional heart of the Malaysian squad. Known for their tactical “clutch” play in team environments, they are the primary reason Malaysia is considered a favorite to escape Group B.

The Defending Power (Rank 3): China’s Liang and Wang bring a high-speed, aggressive style that defines the modern game. As the top pair for the defending champions, they will face an immediate test in Group A against India’s power hitters.

The Indian Rockets (Rank 4): Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty possess arguably the heaviest smashes in the world. Their presence makes India a nightmare for any opponent, as they are capable of beating any pair on this list on any given day.

The New Indonesian Duo (Rank 5): The pairing of veteran Fajar Alfian with the younger Muhammad Shohibul Fikri has proven to be a masterstroke. Despite playing the fewest tournaments among the top five, their high points-per-tournament ratio makes them the “dark horse” pair of the 2026 Finals.

Conclusion: A Shift in the Balance of Power?

For decades, the Thomas Cup was a tug-of-war between Indonesia, China, and Malaysia. However, 2026 feels different. The rise of France—now seeded above Denmark—and the continued excellence of India and Thailand have turned the tournament into a truly global affair.

As the fans descend upon Forum Horsens, all eyes will be on whether the Danish hosts can reclaim the trophy they last held in 2016, or if the “Great Wall” of China will prove too high once again. One thing is certain: between April 24 and May 3, Denmark will be the center of the sporting world.

2026 Uber Cup
2026-04-24 00:00 - 2026-05-03 23:59 (Europe/Copenhagen) | Forum Horsens, Langmarksvej 53, Horsens, 8700, Denmark
The 2026 Uber Cup stands as the 31st edition of the world’s premier women’s team badminton championship. Parallel to the Thomas Cup, this prestigious event will bring the elite of the women’s game to Horsens, Denmark. As the “Great Wall” of China seeks to defend their 16th title, a rising tide of European talent and the technical brilliance of Japan and South Korea set the stage for one of the most unpredictable tournaments in recent memory.

Tournament Date and Venue

The 2026 Uber Cup shares the stage with the men’s event, running from Friday, 24th April to Sunday, 3rd May 2026.

Host City: Horsens, Denmark

Competition Venue: Forum Horsens

Official Website: www.denmark2026.dk

Instant Review System (IRS): Available on Courts 1 and 2 to ensure precision in high-stakes rallies.

Tournament Schedule

The Uber Cup follows a mirror-image schedule to the Thomas Cup, but with its own dedicated knockout draw ceremony.

DateDayRoundSession Times24 – 29 AprilDays 1–6Group Stage08:30 / 10:00 & 18:00 / 18:3030 April 2026Day 7Uber Cup Quarterfinals10:00 & 18:002 May 2026Day 9Uber Cup Semifinals10:003 May 2026Day 10Uber Cup Final10:00

Knockout Draw: The Uber Cup knockout bracket will be finalized on Wednesday, 29 April 2026, at 10:30 CET at the Forum Horsens Media Centre.

Points on Offer

The Uber Cup remains one of the highest-weighted events for the BWF World Rankings. For the top stars, these points are essential for securing high seedings in individual World Tour events.

Finishing PositionRanking Points (Per Player)Winner12,000Runner-up10,200Semifinalists8,400Quarterfinalists6,600

Qualified Teams & Group Draw

The 16 nations competing in Horsens have emerged from a rigorous qualification cycle. Spain notably enters the fray as a reallocated entry after France and Scotland declined their invitations.

Group A: The Defending Champions

China (Defending Champions)

India

Denmark (Hosts)

Ukraine

This is a daunting group for the hosts. China enters as the heavy favorite with 16 titles to their name, while India remains a dangerous contender despite a decade-long semifinal drought. Ukraine and Denmark will look to utilize their European familiarity to cause an upset.

Group B: The Rising Sun vs. The Crescent

Japan

Malaysia

Türkiye

South Africa

Japan is the clear favorite here, but Türkiye stands out as the only European team in the draw not sharing a group with another European side. Malaysia will be the primary challenger to Japan’s dominance in this pool.

Group C: The Asian-Pacific Clash

Chinese Taipei

Indonesia

Canada

Australia

This group features a fascinating stylistic battle between the technical prowess of Chinese Taipei and the resurgent Indonesian squad. Canada and Australia round out a group that promises high-intensity doubles matches.

Group D: The European Derby

South Korea

Thailand

Bulgaria

Spain

Group D is arguably the most competitive. While South Korea and Thailand are perennial knockout-stage residents, the inclusion of Bulgaria (led by the Stoeva sisters) and Spain makes every tie a potential banana skin for the favorites.

Stars to Watch: Singles (WS)

The Women’s Singles field in 2026 is dominated by a mix of defensive maestros and young speedsters.

RankNameNationTotal Points1An Se-youngSouth Korea115,7702Wang ZhiyiChina105,1623Chen YufeiChina95,6354Akane YamaguchiJapan93,0645Han YueChina87,550

An Se-young remains the woman to beat, boasting a defensive game that frustrates even the most aggressive attackers. However, China’s “Triple Threat” of Wang Zhiyi, Chen Yufei, and Han Yue gives them a depth that no other nation can match in a best-of-five format. Watch for Thailand’s Ratchanok Intanon (Rank 7) to provide the veteran magic that often defines team events.

Stars to Watch: Doubles (WD)

The Women’s Doubles rankings show a fierce battle for supremacy, with China and South Korea currently holding the edge.

RankNamesNationTotal Points1Liu Shengshu / Tan NingChina119,0842Pearly Tan / Thinaah M.Malaysia96,7503Baek Ha-na / Lee So-heeSouth Korea92,4304Jia Yifan / Zhang ShuxianChina89,6605Kim Hye-jeong / Kong Hee-yongSouth Korea87,267

The Chinese pair of Liu Shengshu and Tan Ning have been nearly untouchable in 2026. However, Malaysia’s Pearly Tan and Thinaah Muralitharan have surged to Rank 2, making them a “Point A” guarantee for Malaysia. European fans should keep a close eye on Gabriela and Stefani Stoeva (Rank 10), whose chemistry and experience could see Bulgaria pull off a major upset in Group D.

Prize Money: A Badge of Honor

Consistent with the tradition of the Thomas Cup, the 2026 Uber Cup does not offer prize money to players or participating teams.

The BWF treats this championship as a “Major,” where the rewards are purely honorary. The absence of a purse emphasizes the spirit of amateurism in its truest sense—playing for the glory of the nation.

Financial Realities

No Payouts: There are no appearance fees or performance bonuses from the BWF.

Federation Bonuses: Most top-tier players receive performance-based rewards from their national sporting bodies. For example, the Indonesian and Korean governments are known to provide significant financial incentives for podium finishes.

Commercial Value: While there is no direct prize money, winning the Uber Cup significantly increases a player’s marketability and sponsorship value back home.

Summary

The 2026 Uber Cup in Horsens is set to be a celebration of women’s sport. With the home crowd backing the Danish team in Group A and the world’s Top 10 stars all in attendance, the gap between the traditional Asian powerhouses and the rest of the world has never been narrower. Whether it is An Se-young’s precision or the sheer power of Liu Shengshu, the Forum Horsens will witness the pinnacle of badminton excellence.

2026 Luxembourg Open
2026-04-30 00:00 - 2026-05-03 23:59 (Europe/Luxembourg) | Coque National Sports and Culture Centre, 2 Rue Léon Hengen, Kirchberg, 1745, Luxembourg
The 2026 Luxembourg Open stands as a pivotal fixture in the international badminton calendar, continuing its tradition as a high-stakes International Series event. Known for its impeccable organization and the scenic backdrop of the Grand Duchy, the tournament serves as a vital platform for rising stars and seasoned professionals to earn crucial world ranking points and a share of the competitive prize pool.

As part of the BWF (Badminton World Federation) International Series, the 2026 edition promises high-octane matches across all five disciplines: Men’s Singles, Women’s Singles, Men’s Doubles, Women’s Doubles, and Mixed Doubles.

Venue: The Iconic d’Coque

The tournament will be hosted at one of Europe’s most prestigious sporting facilities, the Centre National Sportif et Culturel “Coque”, commonly known as “d’Coque.”

Located in the heart of the Kirchberg district, the venue is celebrated for its striking futuristic architecture and world-class amenities. For players and spectators alike, it offers an elite atmosphere designed for peak performance.

Address: 2, rue Léon Hengen, L-1745 Luxembourg

Facility: The matches are held in a state-of-the-art arena specifically equipped to meet BWF standards, ensuring optimal lighting, flooring, and air conditions for professional badminton.

Tournament Dates & Provisional Schedule

The 2026 tournament is strategically scheduled to run from April 30th to May 3rd, offering four days of intense competition. The event kicks off with a mandatory technical briefing before the shuttles start flying.

DateTimeEvent StageWednesday, April 29th19:00Team Managers’ Meeting (Amphitheatre)Thursday, April 30th09:00 – 22:00Qualification RoundsFriday, May 1st09:00 – 22:001st & 2nd RoundsSaturday, May 2nd09:00 – 13:00Quarterfinals15:00 – 19:00SemifinalsSunday, May 3rd13:00 – 18:00Finals

Prize Money Distribution

The Luxembourg Open 2026 offers a total prize purse of US$ 15,000 (calculated at an exchange rate of 0.85, totaling €12,750.00 as of late 2025).

Prize Breakdown (in Euros)

PlacementMS / WSMD / WD / XD (per pair)Winner€1,020€1,150Runner-up€615€770Semi-finalist€255€320Quarterfinalist€105–

Note: For doubles categories (MD, WD, XD), the prize money is awarded per pair.

Why the Luxembourg Open Matters

For many athletes, the Luxembourg Open is more than just a tournament; it is a gateway to the higher tiers of the BWF World Tour. Because it is held in a central European hub, the event attracts a diverse entry list from across the continent and Asia.

The compact schedule—transitioning from the grueling qualification rounds on Thursday to the prestige of Finals Day on Sunday—tests the endurance and mental fortitude of the competitors. Fans attending the event can expect to see a mix of explosive power in the doubles disciplines and tactical artistry in the singles matches.

Visitor Information

Spectators traveling to the Kirchberg plateau can enjoy easy access via Luxembourg’s highly efficient (and free) public transport system, including the tram line that stops directly near d’Coque. With its blend of top-tier sport and the cultural charm of Luxembourg City, the 2026 Luxembourg Open is an unmissable event for the global badminton community.

2026 Thailand Open
2026-05-12 00:00 - 2026-05-17 23:59 (Asia/Bangkok) | Nimibutr Stadium, 154 ถนน พระรามที่ ๑1 Wang Mai, Pathum Wan, Bangkok, 10330, Thailand
The 2026 Thailand Open returns to the heart of Bangkok this May, promising a week of high-octane badminton action at the historic Nimibutr Stadium. As a key fixture on the BWF World Tour, this Super 500 event serves as a critical battleground for world-ranking points and a total prize purse of USD 500,000.

With the local “Thai Power” movement at an all-time high, the 2026 edition is set to be a celebration of both international excellence and national pride.

Tournament Essentials: Dates and Venue

The tournament is scheduled to take place from May 12 to May 17, 2026.

The venue, Nimibutr Stadium, is located within the National Stadium complex at 154 Rama I Rd., Patumwan. Known for its intimate atmosphere and steep seating that puts fans right on top of the action, the stadium has long been a fortress for Thai athletes. Its central location in Bangkok ensures easy access for the thousands of fans expected to descend on the capital.

Tournament Specifications

Scoring System: Best of three games to 21 points, as per standard Laws of Badminton.

Technology: The Instant Review System (IRS) will be available on televised courts to ensure officiating precision.

Sanctioning Body: Badminton Association of Thailand (BAT) under the BWF.

The Road to the Podium: Tournament Schedule

The 2026 Thailand Open features a packed six-day schedule. The early days will see a mix of grueling qualification rounds and the first stage of the main draw, while the weekend will focus on the elite survivors.

DateEvent RoundCourtsDoors OpenStart TimeTuesday, 12 MayQualifications (All) / R32 (MD & WD)408:0009:00 / 17:00Wednesday, 13 MayRound of 32 (All Events)408:0009:00Thursday, 14 MayRound of 16411:0012:00Friday, 15 MayQuarterfinals311:0012:00Saturday, 16 MaySemifinals211:0012:00Sunday, 17 MayFinals111:0012:00

Note: International TV broadcasts begin on Thursday, May 14, at 12:00 local time.

Daily Match Schedule and Results

Prize Money Distribution

The USD 500,000 prize fund will be distributed across all five categories. In accordance with Thailand Revenue regulations, a 5% income tax may be deducted from the winnings.

Singles (Men’s and Women’s)

FinishPrize Money (USD)Winner$37,500Runner-up$19,000Semifinalist$7,250Quarterfinalist$3,000Round of 16$1,750

Doubles (Men’s, Women’s, and Mixed)

Amounts are per pair.

FinishPrize Money (USD)Winner$39,500Runner-up$19,000Semifinalist$7,000Quarterfinalist$3,625Round of 16$1,875

Draw Size and Competition Structure

The 2026 event maintains a standard Super 500 draw size, ensuring that only the most consistent players on the tour make it to the main stage.

Singles (MS/WS): 28 Direct Entries + 4 Qualifiers (16-player Qualification Draw).

Doubles (MD/WD/XD): 28 Direct Entries + 4 Qualifiers (8-pair Qualification Draw).

Men’s Singles

Women’s Singles

Men’s Doubles

Women’s Doubles

Mixed Doubles

Stars to Watch

The 2026 Thailand Open is particularly significant for the host nation, as several Thai players have reached the peak of the world rankings leading into this season.

1. Kunlavut Vitidsarn (Men’s Singles)

The reigning pride of Thailand, Kunlavut enters the 2026 season as a dominant force in Men’s Singles. Known for his “unplayable” defense and tactical brilliance, he will be the heavy favorite to keep the trophy in Bangkok. His ability to navigate long rallies makes him a nightmare opponent in the humid conditions of the Nimibutr Stadium.

2. Ratchanok Intanon (Women’s Singles)

A legend of the sport, Intanon remains a major contender. Despite battling various injury setbacks in early 2026, her technical grace and “May-style” deception continue to draw massive crowds. Fans will be eager to see if she can claim another home title against a surging field of international youngsters.

3. Dechapol Puavaranukroh & Supissara Paewsampran (Mixed Doubles)

Following a reshuffling in the Mixed Doubles circuit, this high-energy pair has become Thailand’s primary hope in the category. Currently ranked within the world’s top 5, their speed and chemistry will be tested against the formidable Chinese and South Korean pairs.

The Fan Experience

For those attending in person, the 2026 Thailand Open offers more than just badminton. The “Fan Zone” outside Nimibutr Stadium will feature interactive sponsor booths, official BWF merchandise, and local Thai street food stalls. With the Instant Review System providing dramatic “Hawk-Eye” moments on the big screens, the atmosphere is expected to be electric from the first serve on Tuesday morning to the final championship point on Sunday afternoon.

Whether you are a die-hard badminton enthusiast or a casual sports fan, the 2026 Thailand Open is an unmissable showcase of speed, agility, and elite athleticism.

2026 Réunion Open
2026-05-13 00:00 - 2026-05-17 23:59 (Asia/Dubai) | Gymnase Champ Fleuri, 8 Rue Christol de Sigoyer, Sainte-Clotilde, 97490, Reunion
The 2026 Réunion Open stands as a premier fixture in the Indian Ocean badminton calendar, bringing together international talent and local prowess. Organized by the Ligue Nouvelle du Badminton Réunionnais, this tournament serves as a critical platform for athletes to secure ranking points and compete for a significant prize purse.

Venue and Tournament Atmosphere

The tournament will be hosted at the Gymnasium Champ Fleuri in Saint-Denis, Réunion. Known for its high-standard facilities, the venue will feature a four-court setup designed to accommodate the fast-paced nature of modern elite badminton.

Tournament Schedule

The 2026 Réunion Open spans five days of intense competition, starting Wednesday, May 13th and concluding with the grand finals on Sunday, May 17th.

DayDateRoundsStart TimeEst. End TimeWednesday13/05Qualifying Rounds (MS/WS/XD)10:0022:00Thursday14/05Round of 32 (All Events)10:0022:00Friday15/05Round of 16 (All Events)10:0017:00Saturday16/05Quarterfinals (Session 1)10:0014:00Saturday16/05Semifinals (Session 2)17:0020:00Sunday17/05Finals (All Events)10:0015:00

Note: The Tournament Referee may adjust times and the order of play at their discretion.

Prize Money and Financial Incentives

A total prize fund of US$24,500 will be distributed among the top performers. The distribution is calculated based on a fixed exchange rate set on December 1, 2025.

Prize Money Breakdown (Euros)

CategoryWinnerRunner-UpSemifinalistQuarterfinalistMen’s Singles3,000 €1,625 €625 €250 €Women’s Singles3,000 €1,625 €625 €250 €Men’s Doubles*2,000 €1,000 €375 €—Women’s Doubles*2,000 €1,000 €375 €—Mixed Doubles*2,000 €1,000 €375 €—*Prize money for doubles is awarded per pair.

Tax Regulations

In accordance with French law, the following tax deductions apply to the prize money:

Foreign Players: A 15% tax will be deducted at the source.

French Players: No tax is deducted from the winnings.

Documentation: All recipients will receive an official note from the local tax department for their records.

Draws

Men’s Singles

Women’s Singles

Men’s Doubles

Women’s Doubles

Mixed Doubles

Digital Access and Broadcasting

For fans unable to attend the Gymnasium Champ Fleuri in person, the Ligue Nouvelle du Badminton Réunionnais has ensured comprehensive coverage. All four competition courts will be broadcast live via:

YouTube

Facebook

2026 Malaysia Masters
2026-05-19 00:00 - 2026-05-24 23:59 (Asia/Kuala_Lumpur) | Axiata Arena, L2-E-10, Enterprise 4, Technology Park Malaysia, Lebuhraya Bukit Jalil, Bukit Jalil, Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, 57000, Malaysia
The Perodua Malaysia Masters 2026 is set to electrify the Axiata Arena in Kuala Lumpur this May. As a premier BWF World Tour Super 500 event, it remains a cornerstone of the international badminton calendar, drawing the world’s elite athletes to the heart of Malaysia.

Whether you are a seasoned fan or a first-time spectator, here is everything you need to know about the 2026 edition.

Tournament Overview

Dates: Tuesday, 19 May – Sunday, 24 May 2026

Venue: Axiata Arena, KL Sports City, Bukit Jalil, Kuala Lumpur

Status: BWF World Tour Super 500

Total Prize Pool: USD 500,000

The tournament serves as a crucial mid-year battleground, following the Thailand Open and the China Masters. With ranking points and significant prize money on the line, the competition in the 28-player main draw is expected to be fierce across all five categories.

Prize Money Distribution

The total purse of USD 500,000 is distributed among the top performers. While the singles champions take home the largest individual checks, the doubles pairs also compete for a substantial share of the rewards.

CategoryWinnerRunner-upSemifinalistQuarterfinalistRound of 16Singles (MS/WS)$37,500$19,000$7,250$3,000$1,750Doubles (MD/WD/XD)*$39,500$19,000$7,000$3,625$1,875

*Note: Prize money for doubles is per pair.

Provisional Competition Schedule

The action begins with a high-stakes Tuesday, where qualifiers fight for their spot in the main draw, followed immediately by the opening rounds of the Men’s and Women’s Doubles.

DateRoundDoors OpenStart TimeTue, 19 MayQualifiers & MD/WD Round 109:0010:00Wed, 20 MayMain Draw Round 1 (All Events)08:0009:00Thu, 21 MayRound of 1609:0010:00Fri, 22 MayQuarterfinals08:0009:00 / 15:00Sat, 23 MaySemifinals11:0012:00Sun, 24 MayFinals11:0012:00

Pro Tip: Due to the “Back-to-Back” rule, finalists from the preceding Thailand Open and China Masters will typically have their first-round matches scheduled for Wednesday to allow for travel and recovery.

International Broadcast Schedule

For fans unable to attend the Axiata Arena in person, the tournament will be extensively covered by international broadcasters and the BWF’s digital platforms.

Thursday, 21 May: 8 Matches (Starting 10:00)

Friday, 22 May: 8 Matches (Session 1: 09:00 | Session 2: 15:00)

Saturday, 23 May: 8 Matches (Starting 12:00)

Sunday, 24 May: 5 Championship Matches (Starting 12:00)

In Malaysia, Astro Arena and Astro SuperSport typically provide live coverage. Globally, fans can tune into BWF TV on YouTube (subject to geo-blocking) or check local sports networks like SpoTV.

Draw Size and Format

The tournament features a highly competitive entry list with limited spots available for qualifiers.

EventMain DrawQualifying PositionsMax Qualifying EntriesMen’s Singles28416Women’s Singles2848Men’s Doubles2848Women’s Doubles2848Mixed Doubles2848

Travel & Venue Information

The Axiata Arena is a world-class indoor stadium located within the KL Sports City complex.

Getting There: The easiest way to reach the venue is via the LRT Sri Petaling Line (stop at Bukit Jalil Station), which is just a short walk from the arena entrance.

Entry: Security checks are mandatory at the gate. Fans are encouraged to arrive early, especially for the weekend sessions, to soak in the atmosphere at the fan zones.

With local heroes often performing well on home soil, the 2026 Malaysia Masters promises to be a week of high-octane shuttling and unforgettable sporting drama!

2026 Singapore Badminton Open
2026-05-26 00:00 - 2026-05-31 23:59 (Asia/Singapore) | Singapore Indoor Stadium, 2 Stadium Walk, 397691, Singapore
The KFF Singapore Badminton Open 2026 is set to reclaim its spot as the crown jewel of Southeast Asian badminton this May. As part of the prestigious HSBC BWF World Tour Super 750 tier, this year’s edition carries immense weight for athletes and fans alike, marking the final year the tournament will hold Super 750 status before a planned reclassification in 2027.

Whether you are a seasoned “badminton-geek” or a casual spectator looking for world-class sporting action, here is everything you need to know about the 2026 edition.

Tournament Overview

Official Title: KFF Singapore Badminton Open 2026

Sanction: HSBC BWF World Tour Super 750

Dates: 26 May – 31 May 2026

Total Prize Money: US$ 1,000,000

Venue: Singapore Indoor Stadium

Located at the heart of the newly rebranded precinct, The Kallang, the Singapore Indoor Stadium remains the spiritual home of the event. With its iconic pillarless interior and a capacity of 12,000, it provides an intimate yet electric atmosphere for high-speed rallies.

Prize Money Breakdown

The 2026 edition boasts a massive US$ 1,000,000 prize pool. Distribution follows BWF statutes, rewarding excellence across all five categories.

CategoryWinnerRunner-upSemifinalsQuarterfinalsRound of 16Round of 32Men’s Singles$70,000$34,000$14,000$5,500$3,000$1,000Women’s Singles$70,000$34,000$14,000$5,500$3,000$1,000Men’s Doubles*$74,000$35,000$14,000$6,250$3,250$1,000Women’s Doubles*$74,000$35,000$14,000$6,250$3,250$1,000Mixed Doubles*$74,000$35,000$14,000$6,250$3,250$1,000*Prize money for doubles is per pair.

Competition Schedule

Fans can expect six days of non-stop action. Note that finalists from the Perodua Malaysia Masters 2026 are granted a small reprieve, with their first-round matches scheduled for Wednesday to allow for travel and recovery.

DateRoundCourtsDoors OpenStart TimeTue, 26 MayFirst Round (Top Half)309:0010:00Wed, 27 MayFirst Round (Bottom Half)309:0010:00Thu, 28 MayRound of 16309:0010:00Fri, 29 MayQuarterfinals311:0012:00Sat, 30 MaySemifinals111:0012:00Sun, 31 MayFinals113:0014:00

Note: Times and order of play are subject to change at the discretion of the Tournament Referee.

International TV Broadcast Schedule

For those unable to make it to the stadium, the tournament will be extensively covered across international sports networks.

Wednesday, 27 May: 1 TV Court | 10 Matches | Starts 10:00

Thursday, 28 May: 2 TV Courts | 18 Matches Total | Starts 10:00

Friday, 29 May: 2 TV Courts | 18 Matches Total | Starts 12:00

Saturday, 30 May: 1 TV Court | 10 Matches | Starts 12:00

Sunday, 31 May: 1 TV Court | 5 Championship Finals | Starts 14:00

Draw Size and Competition Format

The Super 750 status ensures a high-density talent pool. Unlike lower-tier events, there are no qualifying rounds; the world’s elite jump straight into the Main Draw.

Men’s & Women’s Singles: 32 entries each.

All Doubles Categories: 32 pairs each.

With a draw size capped at 32, every match from the opening day features top-ranked players, ensuring there are no “easy” rounds in Singapore.

Looking Ahead: A Shift in Status

It is important to note that the 2026 KFF Singapore Badminton Open marks the conclusion of a significant chapter. Following a recent BWF World Tour revamp, the Singapore Open will revert to Super 500 status from 2027 through 2030.

While this shift may result in a different ranking point structure, tournament organizers and local stars like Loh Kean Yew have emphasized that the spirit of the event remains unchanged. The move to Super 500 in 2027 is expected to open more doors for rising local talents (ranked between 50 and 80) to compete on home soil, while still attracting the world’s best.

2026 Indonesia Open
2026-06-02 00:00 - 2026-06-07 23:59 (Asia/Jakarta) | Istora Gelora Bung Karno, Jl. Pintu Satu Senayan No.1, RT.1/RW.3, Gelora, Kecamatan Tanah Abang, Kota Jakarta Pusat, Daerah Khusus Ibukota Jakarta, 10270, Indonesia
Updated on October 12, 2025

The 2026 Indonesia Open promises to be a watershed moment in the BWF World Tour calendar. As a Super 1000 event, it has always been the jewel of the badminton world—often dubbed the “unofficial World Championship” due to its electric atmosphere and prestige. However, the 2026 edition is set to carry extra weight with the historic return of the Djarum Foundation as a primary strategic partner and organizer, signaling a revival of the “golden era” of event presentation in Jakarta.

Tournament Essentials

Official Title: Polytron Indonesia Open 2026 (BWF World Tour Super 1000)

Dates: June 2 – June 7, 2026

Host City: Jakarta, Indonesia

Venue: Istora Senayan (Istora Gelora Bung Karno)

Prize Money: US$1,450,000 (Approx. IDR 23 Billion)

Ranking Points:

Winner: 12,000 points

Runner-up: 10,200 points

Semifinalists: 8,400 points

The Comeback of Djarum Foundation

The most significant storyline for the 2026 edition is the official return of the Djarum Foundation (Bakti Olahraga Djarum Foundation) as a main sponsor and event organizer (EO) after a six-year hiatus.

From 2004 to 2013, the “Djarum Indonesia Open” was globally recognized as the best-organized badminton tournament, famed for turning a sporting event into a family entertainment spectacle. Their departure left a gap in the tournament’s presentation style. Their return in 2026 is expected to:

Elevate the Fan Experience: Djarum is known for integrating live music, cultural bazaars, and interactive fan zones that rival major music festivals.

Boost Production Quality: Expect world-class lighting, court presentation, and broadcast values.

Support Local Talent: Their involvement often correlates with a renewed focus on scouting and supporting young Indonesian shuttlers on the big stage.

2025 Edition Recap: The Defending Champions

To understand the stakes of 2026, we must look at the reigning kings and queens who conquered Jakarta in 2025. These athletes will enter the 2026 tournament with a target on their backs.

Men’s Singles (MS): Anders Antonsen (Denmark)

The Feat: Antonsen finally captured the Istora crown after years of being a crowd favorite, showcasing his tactical brilliance to defeat his opponents in a thrilling final.

Women’s Singles (WS): An Se-young (South Korea)

The Feat: Continuing her dominance, An Se-young proved too consistent and physically superior, cementing her status as the era’s defining female player.

Men’s Doubles (MD): Kim Won-ho & Seo Seung-jae (South Korea)

The Feat: The Koreans shocked the home favorites and top seeds with their speed and defense, proving to be the most versatile pair on tour.

Women’s Doubles (WD): Liu Shengshu & Tan Ning (China)

The Feat: This young Chinese pair overwhelmed veterans with their sheer power and attacking style, signaling a changing of the guard in women’s doubles.

Mixed Doubles (XD): Thom Gicquel & Delphine Delrue (France)

The Feat: A historic win for Europe in a discipline usually dominated by Asia. Their victory was a masterclass in tactical discipline and composure.

Full Competition Schedule

The tournament follows a standard six-day progression from the opening rounds to the finals, though specific BWF regulations regarding players coming from the Singapore Open have created a unique split in the first round.

Here is the official daily schedule for the Polytron Indonesia Open 2026:

DateDayEvent RoundCourtsDoors OpenStart TimeJune 2TuesdayFirst Round (Top Half)308:3009:00June 3WednesdayFirst Round (Bottom Half)308:3009:00June 4ThursdayRound of 16 (R16)308:3009:00June 5FridayQuarterfinals (Session I)208:3009:00June 5FridayQuarterfinals (Session II)213:0013:30June 6SaturdaySemifinals111:3012:00June 7SundayFinals113:3014:00

Key Scheduling Notes:

The Singapore Factor: A specific rule states that all finalists from the KFF Singapore Badminton Open 2026 (which concludes just before this tournament) will receive a slight reprieve. They will play their first-round matches on Wednesday, June 3, rather than Tuesday .

Draw Dynamics: Fans should be aware of the “Seed Withdrawal Move.” If a seeded player withdraws, positions in the draw may shift significantly during the Team Managers’ Meeting. A player initially placed in the Top Half could be moved to the Bottom Half (and vice versa) to balance the bracket.

Session Splits: Friday features a split session. Morning ticket holders will see the first batch of quarterfinals, while afternoon attendees will catch the rest, starting at 13:30.

Where to Watch: Broadcast Schedule

For fans unable to make the trip to Jakarta, extensive coverage is available. The tournament will be produced for international broadcast, featuring high-definition feeds from multiple courts.

Globally, the BWF provides feeds to various networks. However, for Indonesian fans, the broadcasting rights have been secured by RCTI. The network will air the matches live starting at 09:00 WIB daily .

Here is the official TV Broadcast production schedule:

DateDayTV CourtsMatches (C1)Matches (C)Start TimeJune 2Tuesday210–09:00June 3Wednesday210809:00June 4Thursday210809:00June 5Friday (AM)22209:00June 5Friday (PM)28613:30June 6Saturday110–12:00June 7Sunday15–14:00

In addition to the international feed, domestic-only TV matches may be produced for the local audience. Official communication regarding these additional matches will be provided at the Team Managers’ Meeting. For cord-cutters, live streaming is available via Vidio and Vision+.

Prize Money Breakdown: US$ 1.45 Million

Money talks, and in 2026, it is shouting. The total prize fund of $1,450,000 is distributed down to the Last 32 round, ensuring that even players who lose their first match take home a paycheck.

However, there is a distinct financial hierarchy. Interestingly, Doubles pairs take home a higher total purse amount than Singles winners, though this is split between two athletes.

Singles Prize Money (Men’s & Women’s):

Winner: $101,500

Runner-up: $49,300

Semi-finalist: $20,300

Quarter-finalist: $7,975

Last 16: $4,350

Last 32: $1,450

Doubles Prize Money (MD, WD, XD) – Per Pair:

Winners: $107,300

Runners-up: $50,750

Semi-finalists: $20,300

Quarter-finalists: $9,062.50

Last 16: $4,712.50

Last 32: $1,450

Note: No local tax is applied to the prize money.

A Brief History: Titans of the Indonesia Open

Established in 1982, the Indonesia Open is one of the oldest and most historic tournaments in Asia. It has witnessed the evolution of badminton from the 15-point scoring system to the current rally-point era.

The tournament is famous for being incredibly difficult to defend; the raucous crowd can lift home players to impossible victories or crumble the focus of visiting legends.

Most Successful Players & Pairs

The “Hall of Fame” for the Indonesia Open is dominated by legends who thrived on the chaotic energy of Jakarta:

Men’s Singles Kings (6 Titles):

Ardy Wiranata (INA): The defensive wall of Indonesia ruled the 90s.

Taufik Hidayat (INA): The “Prince of Istora” whose backhand became folklore.

Lee Chong Wei (MAS): remarkably, a non-Indonesian who mastered the windy conditions of Istora to equal the record.

The Queen of Jakarta (5 Titles):

Susi Susanti (INA): The Golden Bride dominated the late 80s and 90s, setting a benchmark for Women’s Singles that stands to this day.

Mixed Doubles Supremacy (6 Titles):

Minarti Timur & Tri Kusharjanto (INA): This pair (playing with various partners but most successful together) made the Mixed Doubles discipline their own fortress during their prime.

Men’s Doubles Legacy:

The pairing of Ricky Subagja & Rexy Mainaky and later Minarti Timur (in mixed) set the standard. More recently, Marcus Fernaldi Gideon & Kevin Sanjaya Sukamuljo (The Minions) created a modern dynasty, though they often found the Indonesia Open title elusive compared to other events, highlighting the tournament’s immense difficulty.

Conclusion

The 2026 Indonesia Open is not just a tournament; it is a festival of national pride and world-class athleticism. With US$1.45 million on the line, the return of the Djarum Foundation’s organizational prowess, and the world’s best players converging on Jakarta, it is poised to be the most spectacular edition of the decade.

[year] Australian Badminton Open
2026-06-09 00:00 - 2026-06-14 23:59 (Australia/Melbourne) | Quaycentre, Olympic Blvd, Sydney Olympic Park, Sydney, New South Wales, 2127, Australia
The Sathio Group Australian Badminton Open stands as the crown jewel of badminton in the Oceania region. Sanctioned by the Badminton World Federation (BWF) as part of the prestigious HSBC BWF World Tour, this highly anticipated event regularly brings the world’s finest badminton elite to Sydney for a week of fast-paced, high-stakes action.

For fans planning a trip to the arena or viewers tuning in from across the globe, this comprehensive overview delivers everything you need to know about the tournament’s structure, player field, financial rewards, and venue logistics.

1. Tournament Status & Context

As a designated HSBC BWF World Tour Super 500 event, the Australian Open occupies a critical slot on the international badminton calendar. It serves as an essential battleground for top-tier players looking to secure valuable world ranking points, which heavily influence qualification pathways for major year-end championships and international tournaments.

The tournament features a massive total prize purse of USD 500,000. A significant draw for competing international athletes is that the Australian event traditionally applies no withholding tax on prize earnings, allowing players to retain the maximum value of their payouts.

2. Standard Competition & Broadcast Schedule

The tournament typically unfolds across six action-packed days, utilizing a multiple-court setup that gradually narrows down to a singular, high-pressure television court for the finals. While exact daily timings remain subject to the discretion of the Tournament Referee, the event generally follows a standardized structural progression:

Tuesday: Morning and afternoon sessions are dedicated to the high-stakes Qualification Rounds across all five disciplines (Men’s Singles, Women’s Singles, Men’s Doubles, Women’s Doubles, and Mixed Doubles). The Round of 32 (Main Draw) for select doubles categories typically commences later in the afternoon.

Wednesday: The Round of 32 continues in full force across all events, featuring the grand debut of the tournament’s top-seeded singles players.

Thursday (Round of 16): The field narrows as the top 16 pairs and singles players battle for a spot in the finals. International TV Broadcast coverage officially begins on this day, typically capturing a designated number of premium matches from the main TV court.

Friday (Quarterfinals): The action intensifies across fewer courts, with global television feeds broadcasting the high-stakes matches to international audiences.

Saturday (Semifinals): The final four in each discipline go head-to-head on the main showcase courts.

Sunday (Finals): The tournament concludes with five back-to-back championship matches to crown the winners of each category.

DateEvent / CategoriesRoundCourtsDoors OpenStart TimeTuesday (9 June)MS / WS / MD / WD / XDMD / WDQualificationRound of 32 (R32)408:0009:0016:00Wednesday (10 June)MS / WS / MD / WD / XDRound of 32 (R32)408:0009:00Thursday (11 June)All EventsRound of 16 (R16)411:0012:00Friday (12 June)All EventsQuarterfinals311:0012:00Saturday (13 June)All EventsSemifinals211:0012:00Sunday (14 June)All EventsFinals112:0013:00

DateDay of WeekBroadcast Window (Local Sydney Time)Number of Broadcast Matches11 June 2026Thursday12:00 – Conclusion8 Matches12 June 2026Friday12:00 – Conclusion8 Matches13 June 2026Saturday12:00 – Conclusion8 Matches14 June 2026Sunday13:00 – Conclusion5 Matches (All Finals)All times are local, UTC+10.

3. Prize Money Allocation

In strict compliance with BWF statutes, the USD 500,000 cash pool is divided systematically across all performance tiers. In accordance with international tournament standards, the financial rewards for all singles categories are distributed to individual competitors, whereas all doubles payouts are awarded per pair and divided equally between the partners.

The financial breakdown spans five primary tiers:

Champions: Earn the largest share of the purse alongside the prestigious tournament trophy.

Runners-up: Secure a significant secondary financial payout.

Semifinalists & Quarterfinalists: Receive scaled rewards based on their bracket progression.

Round of 16 Finishers: Take home a baseline cash prize for making the tournament’s second main round.

CategoryWinnerRunner-upSemifinalistQuarterfinalistLast 16 (R16)Men’s Singles$37,500$19,000$7,250$3,000$1,750Women’s Singles$37,500$19,000$7,250$3,000$1,750Men’s Doubles$39,500$19,000$7,000$3,625$1,875Women’s Doubles$39,500$19,000$7,000$3,625$1,875Mixed Doubles$39,500$19,000$7,000$3,625$1,875

4. Venue Guide & Transit Logistics: Quaycentre

The traditional home of the tournament is the multi-purpose Quaycentre, situated inside the world-class sports precinct of Sydney Olympic Park in New South Wales, Australia (Official Website: www.quaycentre.com.au). Celebrated for its intimate seating layout and brilliant indoor acoustics, the stadium brings spectators close to the boundary lines, creating an unforgettable, high-energy atmosphere.

How to Get There

Sydney Olympic Park features premier, purpose-built transportation infrastructure designed to handle large event crowds. Spectators are strongly encouraged to take advantage of Sydney’s comprehensive public transit network to ensure seamless travel:

By Train (Recommended): The most efficient transit route is via the Sydney Trains network. Fans can board a dedicated Olympic Park shuttle service operating regularly from Lidcombe Station, arriving in under 10 minutes. From Olympic Park Station, the Quaycentre is an easy, scenic walk along Olympic Boulevard.

By Bus: Multiple regular state bus routes directly service the Olympic Park precinct, dropping passengers off within a short walking distance of the primary sports complexes.

By Ferry: For a unique, panoramic journey, travelers can take a river ferry service from Circular Quay to the Sydney Olympic Park Wharf, transferring seamlessly to connecting precinct buses that link straight to the arena.

By Car: Drivers can access the precinct via major arterial motorways. Because parking spaces fill up quickly during major tournament days, pre-booking a spot in the nearby P2, P3, or P4 car parks is highly recommended.

5. Essential Spectator Tips

To maximize your live tournament experience at the Quaycentre, keep these essential tips in mind:

Dress Comfortably: Depending on the time of year, outdoor temperatures in Sydney can vary. While the inside of the Quaycentre is fully climate-controlled, slight courtside drafts can occur during long sessions, making layered clothing the ideal choice.

Acoustics & Sound: Because of the stadium’s compact design, the sharp sound of racket strikes and crowd cheers amplifies quickly. Spectators sitting close to the court baselines or those sensitive to sudden sharp noises may want to carry light ear protection.

Venue Restrictions: Standard stadium security screenings are active at all entry gates. Large luggage, professional video recording equipment, and external commercial catering items are typically restricted, while small personal bags and standard cameras are permitted.

Explore the Area: The Sydney Olympic Park precinct is rich with Olympic monuments, lush parklands, and a wide variety of local dining options, cafes, and restaurants, making it perfect for exploring during session intervals.

2026 BWF World Tour Finals
2026-12-09 00:00 - 2026-12-13 23:59 (Asia/Shanghai) | Hangzhou Olympic Sports Centre Gymnasium, No.2657 Boao Road, Xiaoshan District, Hangzhou, 310051, China
Qiantang River Bridge in Hangzhou, China. Photo by Acres of Film on Pexels

The BWF World Tour Finals represents the absolute mountaintop of the professional badminton calendar. Far from a standard open tournament, this highly exclusive, pressure-cooker event brings together only the top-performing athletes over a grueling year of international competition. As the grand finale of the BWF World Tour circuit, it tests the physical limits, tactical acumen, and mental resilience of the sport’s elite.

In 2026, the global badminton community shifts its gaze to Hangzhou, China—a premier international sports hub. This comprehensive guide provides an evergreen overview of the 2026 BWF World Tour Finals, covering its tournament dates, iconic venue, strict qualification guidelines, historic multi-million dollar prize purse distribution, and provisional schedule.

Tournament Dates and Venue

The 2026 edition of the season-ending showpiece will officially take place from December 9 to December 13, 2026. This tight five-day window ensures that fans are treated to ultra-competitive matchups from the very first serve, completely bypassing the early-round lopsided matches common in standard open tournaments.

In line with the multi-year hosting agreement, the tournament returns to its state-of-the-art home: the Hangzhou Olympic Sports Centre Gymnasium in Hangzhou, China.

Architectural Marvel: Renowned for its futuristic, flowing design that mimics a butterfly, the gymnasium is a centerpiece of the massive Hangzhou Olympic Sports Expo Center. With an indoor seating capacity of approximately 18,000, it stands as one of the largest and most advanced indoor arenas in Asia.

Optimal Playing Conditions: Having successfully anchored prior editions of the World Tour Finals and major multi-sport events like the Asian Games, the venue offers flawless court mats, sophisticated lighting optimized for international broadcasting, and advanced climate control engineered to minimize draft interference on the shuttlecock.

Excellent Fan Accessibility: Conveniently linked to Hangzhou’s rapid transit metro network, the venue is highly rated by global travelers for its seamless entry systems, plentiful amenities, and immersive stadium village experiences.

The Roadmap: How to Qualify

Earning an invitation to the BWF World Tour Finals is arguably more difficult than winning a standard Super 500 or Super 750 open title. Players cannot rely on their historical accolades or career-high BWF World Rankings; entry is determined strictly by points accumulated during the active calendar year via the HSBC BWF Race to Finals Ranking.

The qualification pipeline is governed by five core rules:

1. The Top 14 Results Rule

To prevent athletes from burning out by chasing points at every minor event globally, the BWF utilizes a selective points aggregation system. Only a player or pair’s best 14 results from BWF World Tour tournaments within the qualifying calendar year count toward their Race to Finals standing. Within these 14 counting results, a maximum of three can come from Grade 2 – Level 6 (Super 100) tournaments. This ensures that success at high-stakes tournaments (Super 1000, Super 750, and Super 500) carries the heaviest weight.

2. The Elite Top 8 Cutoff

When the qualifying window officially slams shut, only the top 8 players or pairs in the Race to Finals standings are invited to compete across the five official disciplines:

Men’s Singles (MS)

Women’s Singles (WS)

Men’s Doubles (MD)

Women’s Doubles (WD)

Mixed Doubles (XD)

3. The Two-Player National Cap

One of the most competitive elements of the qualification process is the Member Association limit. A maximum of two players or pairs per country (Member Association) can qualify for any single discipline. If a powerhouse nation like China, Japan, or South Korea has three or four players sitting in the global top 8 of the standings, the lower-ranked athletes from that nation are excluded. This rule throws a lifeline to the next highest-ranked player from another country and sparks fierce intra-national rivalries throughout the season.

4. The World Champion Wildcard

Reigning BWF World Champions receive an automatic invitation to the World Tour Finals, serving as a highly coveted wildcard. However, this privilege is not entirely unconditional. To activate this automatic spot, the reigning champions must still participate in the tour and maintain an active, competitive standing as outlined by BWF regulations.

5. Tie-Breaking Procedures

If two or more players or pairs finish the qualification window with the exact same number of points, ties are broken sequentially using these criteria:

The player or pair who participated in the higher number of BWF World Tour tournaments throughout the qualifying period.

The player or pair who collected the most points specifically in BWF World Tour tournaments starting from July 1 of that calendar year.

Tournament Prize Money and Distribution

The financial stakes for the 2026 BWF World Tour Finals reach a massive total prize purse of US$3,500,000. This makes the event one of the most lucrative tournaments in all of professional racquet sports.

Because doubles pairs must split their earnings between two individuals, the BWF utilizes a weighted percentage distribution that allocates slightly higher percentages to the doubles disciplines for certain finishing positions, ensuring an equitable reward system. Below is the precise breakdown of how the US$3.5 million prize money is distributed among the fields, based on exact percentage calculations:

Finishing Round / PlacementMen’s & Women’s Singles (%)Men’s & Women’s Singles (USD)Doubles Disciplines (MD/WD/XD) (%)Doubles Disciplines (MD/WD/XD) (USD)Winner8.00%$280,0008.40%$294,000Runner-up4.00%$140,0004.00%$140,000Semi-finalist (2 per discipline)2.00%$70,0002.00%$70,0003rd in Group Stage1.10%$38,5001.30%$45,5004th in Group Stage0.60%$21,0000.70%$24,500

Financial Security: Unlike knockout-only tournaments where players who exit in the first round leave with minimal earnings, the World Tour Finals guarantees a baseline payout even for those finishing 4th in the group stage ($21,000 for singles and $24,500 for doubles pairs). This ensures that every athlete who survives the year-long qualification grind is handsomely rewarded for making the top 8.

Tournament Format

The unique structure of the World Tour Finals explains why the physical demands are so intense. The 8 qualified players or pairs in each discipline are split into two groups of four (Group A and Group B) via a formal seeding and draw ceremony.

Group Stage (Round Robin): Over the first three days, every player or pair plays a match against the other three opponents in their respective group.

The Standings Crunch: Group placements are decided by the total number of matches won. If there is a tie, it is broken by game difference, followed by point difference, and head-to-head records if necessary.

The Knockout Draw: The top two finishers from Group A and Group B advance to the semi-finals. To prevent intentional match manipulation, a fresh knockout draw is conducted on Friday night. The top finishers of Group A and Group B are separated, but the runners-up can potentially be drawn against the same group-stage leader they just faced.

No Bronze Medal Match: The losers of the semi-final matches exit simultaneously as joint semi-finalists, both taking home the designated 2.00% prize allotment ($70,000).

Provisional Schedule of Play

The action unfolds across five consecutive days of world-class badminton. While exact order of play updates are determined daily by the referee panel, the tournament adheres to a strict provisional timeline:

Wednesday, December 9: Group Stage – Day 1

What to expect: The opening salvo. Every player seeks a crucial first win to set a strong tone for the group. Matches are split across morning and evening sessions.

Thursday, December 10: Group Stage – Day 2

What to expect: The critical pivot. Day 1 winners can secure an early ticket to the semi-finals, while Day 1 losers fight desperately to avoid mathematical elimination.

Friday, December 11: Group Stage – Day 3

What to expect: The ultimate group-stage drama. Final round-robin matches determine who clinches the top two spots in each pool. The official Knockout Stage Draw takes place immediately following the conclusion of the final evening match.

Saturday, December 12: The Semi-Finals

What to expect: Single-elimination rules take effect. The final four surviving competitors in each discipline battle across high-octane morning and evening sessions to earn a place in the grand finale.

Sunday, December 13: The Championship Finals

What to expect: Five blockbuster championship matches back-to-back starting in the afternoon. Winners walk away with the lion’s share of the prize money, 14,000 BWF world ranking points, and the title of World Tour Finals Champion.

Significance of the Finals

The BWF World Tour Finals serves as an irreplaceable benchmark for a player’s career legacy. Because there are no easy opening rounds against lower-tier qualifiers, an athlete must beat three to five top-10 players consecutively to lift the trophy. Winning here demands a perfect blend of peak physical conditioning at the absolute tail end of a draining season and an elite tactical mind. For the badminton community, Hangzhou in December remains the ultimate theater where champions are forged and seasonal greatness is permanently immortalized.
