Nantong shuttler wins world championship

Nantong badminton player Shi Yuqi shows off the trophy for the 2026 Thomas Cup on May 4. [Photo/Badminton World Federation]

Shi Yuqi, a badminton player from Nantong, Jiangsu province, led Team China to a 3-1 victory over the tournament's dark horse, France, in the final of the 2026 Thomas Cup on May 4, marking the 12th time China has claimed the title.

This victory also represents the first world championship title secured by an athlete from Jiangsu this year.

As the lead singles player, Shi was instrumental in the team's success, winning all four of his matches throughout the tournament. The French team had previously upset powerhouse teams Indonesia, Japan and India, all former Thomas Cup champions, establishing themselves as the tournament's dark horse.

Since 2018, Shi has competed in four of the tournaments, earning three gold medals and one silver medal. During this period, he has played in 19 matches, winning 18 of them, making him one of the top three singles players with the highest winning percentage in the history of China's Thomas Cup endeavors.