Sabasports Match Preview
2025 Paris World Championship
2025.8.25-31 (HKT)
Source:REUTERS/VCG
The 2025 World Badminton Championships will officially kick off on August 25 in Paris, France, with the draws for each event already released. The withdrawal of Viktor Axelsen has significantly altered the landscape of the men’s singles competition at the championships. As one of the top players in badminton today, Axelsen possesses strong physical attributes and exceptional defensive counterattack skills. He successfully defended his men’s singles title at the 2024 Paris Olympics and won the 2025 German Open. His absence undoubtedly changes the odds for other competitors, with Shi Yu Qi becoming one of the biggest beneficiaries.
Currently ranked number one in the world, Shi Yu Qi is the top seed for this championship. In the 2025 season, Shi’s form has been explosive, having won four titles: the Malaysian Open, All England Championship, Japan Open, and China Open. Shi has a well-rounded skill set, with powerful, fast, and precise attacking shots, and his overhead cross-court technique is exceptional; he is also agile in defense and quick on his feet. His delicate handling of net shots and impressive high clear shots further enhance his game. Previously, Shi Yu Qi finished as the runner-up at the 2018 World Championships, making this his fifth appearance at the event. Should he win this time, he will end a decade-long drought for men’s singles titles for the Chinese badminton team.
It is worth mentioning that although Axelsen is absent due to injury, the Danish team still has Anders Antonsen, currently ranked second in the world. As the second seed for this championship, the 2021 World Championship runner-up excels in prolonged rallies. This season, he has faced Shi Yu Qi three times, with all matches going to three games, including a thrilling semifinal at the All England Championship where he was narrowly defeated by Shi. Additionally, the third seed, Kunlavut Vitidsarn, known as the “Thai No. 1,” is also a strong contender for the men’s singles title. Kunlavut battled Axelsen in three games during the finals of the Paris Olympics and caused an upset by defeating Shi Yu Qi at the 2023 Indonesia Masters. Kunlavut has an impressive defensive coverage ability, with a remarkable average save success rate of 78%.
Axelsen’s withdrawal means that Shi Yu Qi, Antonsen, and Kunlavut face one less strong opponent, significantly boosting their chances of winning. Considering their overall form, Shi Yu Qi, with his comprehensive skills, stable mental state, and rich competition experience, is in a favorable position for the 2025 men’s singles title. In a tight contest, the courageous will prevail! Let’s witness the exciting matchups on the court together!