KOTA KINABALU: On finals day at the 2025 BWF World Tour Finals, history transformed into triumph as Christo Popov capped off an unforgettable week by securing the most significant title of his career in Hangzhou.
The 23-year-old French player followed his remarkable semifinal performance with a victory over reigning champion Shi Yu Qi of China, winning 21-19, 21-9, in front of an enthusiastic home audience.
Popov’s performance showcased composure, physical prowess, and unwavering belief, making him the first French athlete to win the BWF World Tour Finals men’s singles title.
After a grueling week, Shi Yu Qi seemed to struggle physically, especially in the second game, but this should not overshadow Popov’s accomplishment.
The left-handed player maintained intense focus, managed the occasion excellently, and took charge as the match unfolded, clinching victory in a commanding manner.
Popov departs Hangzhou undefeated, having navigated one of the most challenging groups imaginable before delivering back-to-back dominant displays in the knockout stages.
His consistency and physical readiness were evident throughout the week, earning him not only his first World Tour title of 2025 but also his inaugural career win in Asia, marking the most significant victory of his career.
For European badminton, this represents another significant achievement. Popov now stands alongside Viktor Axelsen and Anders Antonsen as the only Europeans to have secured the esteemed season-ending title, highlighting the ongoing strength and depth of the continent’s men’s singles.
