An Se-young Secures Historic 11th Title, Shatters Badminton Earnings Record in Hangzhou
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A dominant performance by South Korea’s An Se-young at the Badminton World Tour Finals in Hangzhou on Sunday saw her claim a record-equalling 11th title of the year and become the first badminton player to surpass $1 million in annual prize money.
HANGZHOU, China – South Korea’s An Se-young cemented her status as a badminton powerhouse, securing her 11th title of 2025 wiht a hard-fought victory over China’s Wang Zhiyi at the World Tour Finals. The 21-13, 18-21, 21-10 win ties the record for most titles won in a calendar year, previously held by Japanese men’s singles player Kento Momota in 2019.
The world number one, and reigning 2024 Olympic champion, overcame a grueling 96-minute match, visibly hampered by a left-knee issue, to defeat defending champion Wang.Despite the physical challenge, An persevered, demonstrating remarkable resilience to clinch the championship.
“Winning my 11th title, I feel really happy and that it’s really something for me to be proud of,” the 23-year-old stated after her victory. “I’ll enjoy this win today.”
Beyond the championship itself, An’s triumph marked a significant financial milestone. According to the Badminton World Federation, the $240,000 winner’s cheque pushed her total earnings for the year beyond $1 million, adding to the $763,000 she had already accumulated throughout the season. This achievement underscores her unparalleled success and growing influence within the sport.
Popov Delivers Upset Victory for France
The tournament also witnessed a stunning upset in the men’s singles, as Christo Popov of France became the first Frenchman – and only the third European – to win the season-ending event. He defeated China’s world champion Shi Yuqi 21-19, 21-9 in a commanding performance.
shi Yuqi appeared to be battling a foot injury throughout the match, ultimately succumbing to Popov’s relentless attack. The victory was particularly remarkable for Popov, who entered the tournament as an underdog and had not secured a tour title all year. His path to glory included victories over Olympic silver-medallist Kunlavut Vitidsarn and world number three Anders Antonsen.
“It was an amazing week,” Popov said. “Very happy to win the first title for France and I’m hoping for many more to come.”
South Korean Dominance Extends to Doubles
South Korea’s success wasn’t limited to the singles competition. The women’s doubles pair of Baek Ha-na and Lee So-hee triumphed over Japan’s Mayu Matsumoto and Yuki Fukushima 21-17, 21-11, adding another title to South Korea’s impressive haul.
In the men’s doubles, world champions Kim Won-ho and Seo Seung-jae continued their winning streak, defeating China’s Liang Weikeng and Wang Chang 21-18, 21-14.
The Chinese contingent did find success in the mixed doubles, with Feng Yanzhe and Huang Dongping overcoming compatriots Jiang Zhenbang and Wei Yaxin 21-12, 21-17, providing a moment of celebration for the home crowd.
The 2025 Badminton World Tour Finals showcased a thrilling display of athleticism and skill, culminating in a year of unprecedented achievement for An Se-young and a changing of the guard in men’s singles with Popov’s historic victory.
