Paris – World No. 1 Shi Yu Qi of China overcame defending champion Kunlavut Vitidsarn of Thailand in a gripping men’s singles final to win his first-ever Badminton World Championships title — a redemption moment seven years in the making.
The final at Adidas Arena was a dramatic three-game showdown. Despite holding an 18-11 lead in the opening game, Shi saw Vitidsarn launch a stunning 10–1 comeback to snatch the first set 21–19.
Watch Highlights of Shi Yuqi vs. Kunlavut Vitidsarn in th 2025 World Championships Final:
In the second game, Shi adjusted his strategy and played with more control and patience, dominating 21–10 to force a decider.
The third game saw yet another momentum swing. Shi Yu Qi started strong but conceded seven straight points to trail 3–8. However, the Chinese ace dug deep and stormed back with a 5–0 run to level at 8–8. From there, Shi maintained composure, pushing ahead to 17–10, and withstood a late surge from Kunlavut to eventually seal the match 19–21, 21–10, 21–18.
The 73-minute thriller not only earned Shi the coveted men’s singles title but also redemption from his 2018 runner-up finish and his painful early exit from the 2024 Paris Olympics — where he was knocked out by the same opponent, Kunlavut.
Kim/Seo Clinch Men’s Doubles Title for Korea
In men’s doubles, Korea’s top-ranked duo Kim Won Ho and Seo Seung Jae showcased impeccable front-court control and relentless smashes to overpower China’s Chen Bo Yang and Liu Yi. They triumphed 21–17, 21–12 in a commanding performance.
This marks Seo Seung Jae’s second consecutive world title, having previously won in 2023 with a different partner, Kang Min Hyuk. The 2025 title with Kim Won Ho solidifies Seo’s legacy as one of the top doubles players in the world.
