Source:REUTERS/Stephanie Lecocq
[Saba Sports News] Recently, during a training session in Tokyo, Japanese badminton star Shida Chiharu stated that Higashino Arisa is the undeniable choice as her new partner, and their goal is to become world number ones. Shida Chiharu said: “We always wanted to partner with each other. Our goal is to be world number one.” Higashino Arisa responded: “I always wanted to partner with her, and now it’s finally happened, I’m extremely happy. Initially, we will communicate and discuss how to utilize each other’s strengths, hoping to develop our own playing style. We will work hard to strive for the world number one ranking together. By taking each tournament seriously and progressing step by step, we can naturally lay the foundation for our goals three years from now.” It is reported that the new pair will make their debut at the Hong Kong Open starting on the 9th. It is worth noting that at the previous 2025 BWF World Championships, Shida Chiharu and Matsuyama Nami won the women’s doubles bronze medal. This World Championships also marked the final tournament for the “NamiMatsu” pair, who have officially split since the competition ended.