Akane Yamaguchi to Shi Yu Qi: Meet the defending champions heading into the BWF World Championships in Delhi | Badminton News

Akane Yamaguchi and Shi Yu Qi (AP Photos)

NEW DELHI: Winning a world title is one thing. Defending it is an even bigger challenge. With the return of the BWF World Championships to India after 17 years, the spotlight will be on the five reigning champions who arrive in New Delhi with pressure to stay on top. Scheduled from August 17–23 at the Indira Gandhi (IG) indoor stadium, the tournament will see the world’s best players compete for badminton’s biggest individual prize. TOI takes a look at the champions looking to retain their crowns at the BWF World Championships:

Shi Yu Qi enters New Delhi as the reigning men’s singles world champion after finally capturing his first BWF World Championships title in Paris. Finished runner-up in 2018, the Chinese star ended his long-awaited quest for the world crown with a composed and clinical campaign in 2025. Known for his incredible rally control, deceptive stroke play and tactical intelligence, Shi has been one of the most consistent performers on the HSBC BWF World Tour over the past few seasons. A former World No. 1 and multiple Super 1000 winner, he will aim to become the first Chinese man since Chen Long to successfully defend the world title.Key achievements

Akane Yamaguchi added another glorious chapter to her illustrious career by winning the 2025 World Championships, becoming the second female singles player after China’s Zhang Ning to win three world titles. Already celebrated for his incredible speed, defensive tenacity and relentless rebounding ability, the Japanese star has been a model of consistency for nearly a decade. Despite standing over five feet tall, Yamaguchi repeatedly overcame taller and stronger opponents with his incredible anticipation and court coverage. He came to India looking to add to his legacy with a fourth world crown.Key achievements

Kim Won Ho and Seo Seung Jae quickly established themselves as the benchmark in men’s doubles. The Korean pair enjoyed a sensational season in 2025, winning the World Championships before taking the BWF World Tour Finals title and several Super 1000 tournaments. Their partnership combines Seo’s vast experience and Kim’s unique net play with explosive power and court range, making them one of the most complete doubles combinations in the world. They will start the defense of their world title as one of the favorites in New Delhi.Key achievements

In their early twenties, Liu Sheng Shu and Tan Ning emerged as the new faces of Chinese women’s doubles. Olympic silver medalists in Paris 2024, the pair continued their rise by claiming their first title at the World Championships in 2025. Their success was built on relentless attacking play, relentless spin and incredible consistency against the world’s leading pairs. Having established themselves among badminton’s elite, they arrived in New Delhi hoping to successfully defend the biggest title of their careers.Key achievements

Chen Tang Jie and Toh Ee Wei created history in Paris by becoming Malaysia’s first mixed doubles world champions. Their victory also made Toh the second Malaysian athlete to win a gold medal at the World Championships in any discipline. Known for their aggressive style, quick transitions and excellent court understanding, the pair has become one of the strongest mixed doubles combinations on the BWF circuit. They head to New Delhi determined to prove that their winning streak is just the beginning.Key achievements