The 2025 badminton season was marked by historic “firsts” and the continued dominance of established stars. From a breakthrough for French badminton to a record-equaling title run, here are the top 5 badminton highlights from 2025.
Top 5 Badminton Highlights From 2025
1. Christo Popov’s Historic World Tour Finals Victory
In a historic moment for European badminton, Christo Popov became the first French player ever to win the season-ending BWF World Tour Finals in Hangzhou.
The 23-year-old defeated the reigning world champion and world No. 1, Shi Yu Qi, in a convincing straight-sets victory (21-19, 21-9).
Popov went through the tournament unbeaten, taking down the world’s top-ranked players and signaling a major shift in the men’s singles landscape.
2. An Se Young Equals the “11-Title” Season Record
An Se Young capped off a near-perfect year by winning her 11th international title of the season at the World Tour Finals.
By defeating Wang Zhi Yi in a grueling 96-minute final (21-13, 18-21, 21-10), the South Korean tied Kento Momota’s 2019 record for the most titles won in a single season.
She also became the first badminton player to surpass $1 million in prize money in a single calendar year.
3. Shi Yu Qi Finally Claims the World Title
After years of being a top contender, China’s Shi Yu Qi finally secured his first-ever BWF World Championship gold in Paris. His journey was an “epic of endurance,” where he survived two match points in a dramatic semifinal before defeating Kunlavut Vitidsarn in the final.
This win filled the biggest gap in his trophy cabinet and solidified his status as the premier men’s player of the 2025 season.
4. The Rise of Victor Lai
The World Championships in Paris saw the emergence of a new star: 20-year-old Victor Lai.
Lai became Canada’s first-ever medalist at the World Championships. On his way to the podium, he stunned veteran players like Loh Kean Yew and Lu Guang Zu, proving that the gap between traditional powerhouses and the rest of the world is closing.
Also Read: Top 6 Richest Badminton Players In World
5. Kim Won Ho & Seo Seung Jae’s Historic Season
The South Korean duo of Kim Won Ho and Seo Seung Jae dominated the men’s doubles circuit like few pairs have in history. They secured 11 titles in 2025, including the season-ending World Tour Finals crown.
Known for their “maestro” level defense, they became the undisputed world No. 1s and the team to beat heading into 2026.
