Singapore’s badminton star, Loh Kean Yew, has advanced to the third round of the 2025 BWF World Championships after a convincing victory in his second-round match. The 2021 world champion is now set for a highly anticipated showdown against a familiar opponent, Japan’s Kodai Naraoka.
Loh, the number one badminton player from Singapore, secured his spot in the next round by defeating Finland’s Kalle Koljonen in straight sets. The match was a straightforward affair for the Singaporean, who controlled the pace from the start, winning with a decisive score of 21-14, 21-14. His performance showcased the form that led him to his historic world title just a few years ago.
The third round will present a tougher challenge, but one Loh has historically handled well. He is scheduled to face the tournament’s No. 8 seed, Kodai Naraoka. The Japanese player will be looking to overcome a significant historical disadvantage, as he has yet to register a victory against Loh.
The head-to-head record between the two players stands at a perfect 6-0 in favor of Loh Kean Yew in BWF-sanctioned tournaments. Their most recent encounter took place earlier this year in the round of 16 at the 2025 India Open, where Loh once again proved his dominance by defeating Naraoka in straight sets, 21-17, 21-15. This consistent winning streak against his next opponent could provide a crucial psychological edge as Loh continues his campaign to reclaim the world champion title.