Paris, France – August 31, 2025 – In a thrilling and hard-fought men’s singles final at the 2025 BWF World Championships, China’s Shi Yuqi staged a remarkable comeback to defeat defending champion Kunlavut Vitidsarn of Thailand, winning 19-21, 21-10, 21-18. With this monumental victory, Shi Yuqi not only secured his first-ever world title but also ended a decade-long wait for China in the men’s singles category, becoming the first Chinese player to lift the coveted trophy since the legendary Chen Long’s triumph in 2015.
The match at the Adidas Arena was a captivating battle of wits and resilience. The first game saw an uncharacteristically shaky performance from Shi, who, despite holding a significant lead, lost his focus, allowing Vitidsarn to capitalize and snatch the set with a 21-19 scoreline. The momentary lapse of concentration could have been a major blow, but Shi, known for his mental fortitude, refused to let the setback define his performance.
He came roaring back in the second game, displaying the kind of precision and power that has made him the world No. 1. Dominating the rallies with his powerful smashes and deceptive net play, Shi left Vitidsarn with few answers, cruising to a decisive 21-10 victory to level the match.
The deciding third game was a tense and enthralling affair, with both players trading blows and points. The momentum swung back and forth, but Shi held his nerve during the crucial final moments. His relentless attack and unwavering defense proved too much for the defending champion, as Shi closed out the match with a 21-18 win, collapsing to the court in a mix of relief and exhilaration.
This victory is particularly sweet for Shi, who had previously come close to the world title but fell short. His only other World Championship medal was a silver he won in 2018 in Nanjing, China, where he was defeated in the final by Japan’s Kento Momota. This time, on the grandest stage of them all, Shi was determined to complete his quest for gold.
The win not only reaffirms Shi Yuqi’s status as a dominant force in men’s badminton but also revitalizes China’s men’s singles legacy. Following the retirements of giants like Lin Dan and Chen Long, the country had been waiting for a new hero to emerge. With this World Championship title, Shi Yuqi has officially stepped into that role, ushering in a new era for Chinese badminton and cementing his place among the sport’s elite.