Source:Visual China Group/VCG
[Saba Sports News] Over the past two weeks, badminton’s Japan Open (Super 750) and China Open (Super 1000) concluded with Shi Yuqi clinching back-to-back men’s singles titles. With three Super 1000 wins this year, he’s achieved a career Grand Slam in the category. Yet, these events signaled turbulence in men’s singles: a generational shift looms. At the Japan Open, 17-year-old French phenom Alex Lanier (born 2005) reached the finals; at the China Open, China’s Wang Zhengxing (born 2002) mirrored the feat. Post-00s players are seizing the spotlight—though 29-year-old Shi Yuqi still prevailed. Fans noted his victories relied not on technical superiority but experience: smarter stamina management and tactical timing. Meanwhile, 21-year-old Kunlavut Vitidsarn (Thailand) has claimed the world No. 1 spot. Rising stars like France’s Christo Popov, Indonesia’s Alwi Farhan, and India’s Ayush Shetty are climbing relentlessly. Will the 2024 BWF World Championships crown a new king? Stay tuned.