KUALA LUMPUR — Thailand’s Olympic silver medallist Kunlavut Vitidsarn claimed the biggest title of his career by winning the 2026 Malaysia Open men’s singles crown, after China’s world No.1 Shi Yuqi was forced to retire during the final.
The victory marked Kunlavut’s first Super 1000 title and a defining moment for the former world champion, who finally conquered one of the sport’s most prestigious stages.
A Gritty First Game Sets the Tone
Shi Yuqi, who was attempting to defend his Malaysia Open title, struggled to find rhythm early but showed trademark resilience to claw back into the opening game. After leveling the score at 17–17 and again at 20–20, the Chinese star pushed Kunlavut to deuce.
However, the Thai shuttler remained composed and edged the marathon first game 23–21, showcasing patience and tactical control under pressure.
Injury Brings an Abrupt End
The final took a dramatic turn in the second game. With Kunlavut racing to a 6–1 lead, Shi Yuqi signaled to the umpire that he was unable to continue due to injury, bringing the contest to a premature conclusion.
The retirement sealed the championship for Kunlavut, ending the match in unfortunate circumstances but confirming a historic breakthrough.
This final marked the 12th career meeting between the two players. Prior to Kuala Lumpur, Shi held a narrow head-to-head edge, including key wins at last year’s World Championships final and the World Tour Finals semi-finals. This time, however, fate swung in Kunlavut’s favor.
A Dream Trophy Moment With an Idol
The moment carried special emotional significance as Kunlavut received the trophy from his longtime idol, Lee Chong Wei.
Over the years, Kunlavut has repeatedly spoken of his desire to reach the Malaysia Open final just to experience being awarded the title by the Malaysian legend — a dream now fulfilled.
“Lee Chong Wei has always been a role model for me, both on and off the court,” Kunlavut said after the match. “Whenever I have questions or worries, he gives me advice — not just about badminton, but about life.”
With a smile, the Thai star added that he hopes to celebrate by sharing another meal of bak kut teh with Lee Chong Wei, reflecting their warm mentor-student bond.
Korean Pair Deny Malaysia in Men’s Doubles Final
In the men’s doubles final, Malaysia’s Aaron Chia and Soh Wooi Yik fell just short after a hard-fought three-game battle against Korea’s defending champions Seo Seung Jae and Kim Won Ho.
The Koreans held their nerve to win 21–15, 12–21, 21–18, successfully retaining their Malaysia Open title.
Chia later acknowledged that composure at crucial moments proved decisive.
“They were calmer in the key points,” he said. “Even when we were far behind in the deciding game, the home crowd kept us believing. We chased every point and gave everything we had.”
Despite the defeat, Chia noted that the gap between the two pairs is minimal, with fine margins often deciding matches at the highest level.
Malaysia’s Wait Continues
Malaysia’s search for a home champion goes on. The nation last celebrated a Malaysia Open singles title in 2018, while the most recent local men’s doubles champions date back to 2014.
For Kunlavut Vitidsarn, however, Kuala Lumpur will forever be remembered as the venue where he captured his first Super 1000 crown — a triumph that may signal the arrival of a new force at the very top of men’s singles badminton.
