If you thought badminton was all about lightning-fast smashes and endless rallies, hold on tight. South Korea’s An Se Young just rewrote the sport’s history books by becoming the first player ever to earn over $1 million in prize money in a single year. She sealed the deal with a gritty win at the BWF World Tour Finals in Hangzhou, proving that dominance isn’t just for the men’s game.

An Se Young Wins BWF Finals 2025

The atmosphere in Hangzhou was electric as An lifted her 11th title of 2025. Facing defending champion Wang Zhi Yi, she fought through a marathon 96-minute battle, clinching it 21-13, 18-21, 21-10 despite leg cramps. That victory pocketed her $240,000, pushing her season total to a staggering $1,003,175. An’s stats are pure fire: 74 wins in 77 matches for a 94.80% win rate, the highest ever for anyone playing 60+ games in the Superseries/World Tour era, topping legends like Lin Dan and Lee Chong Wei.

From the opening game, An Se Young showcased her trademark speed and smarts. Wang targeted her forehand with long rallies to wear her down, but An fired back with sharp placements, steady defence, and killer smashes. Even when Wang levelled the score by catching her out of position, An dug deep in the decider. Her backcourt defence covered every inch, turning pressure into points and securing her second BWF Finals 2025 crown. Talk about resilience, this is why she’s equaling Kento Momota‘s record for most singles titles in a calendar year.

An Se Young’s milestone isn’t just about the money; it’s a statement. In a sport where every point feels like a war, she’s blending power, strategy, and endurance like no one before. Badminton fans, this is the new benchmark. With records tumbling left and right, expect more fireworks as the season wraps up. Who’s ready for what’s next?
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The Japan Open 2025 in Tokyo turned out to be yet another showcase of sheer dominance from two of badminton’s modern greats, Shi Yuqi and An Se Young. Both players came into the tournament with impressive form, and they left with more than just a trophy. Their performances this year highlight why fans and experts alike keep a close watch on their matches.

Shi Yuqi Returns to the Top

Shi Yuqi, the former world number one from China, continued his resurgence by clinching the men’s singles title. He faced defending champion Alex Lanier of France in a match that tested his focus, especially in the opening game. At 17-17, Shi stepped up, taking four consecutive points to secure the first game 21-17.

He stayed composed in the second game, building on his advantage and finishing strong with a 21-15 win. This victory is significant for Shi as it ends a decade-long wait for a men’s singles champion from China at the Japan Open.

An Se Young’s Remarkable Year Continues

South Korea’s An Se Young added yet another trophy to her growing collection by capturing her sixth title in 2025, a striking statistic in a season where she has only lost once. In the final, she met China’s Wang Zhiyi and delivered a commanding performance. An went on an eight-point run in the first game and wrapped things up 21-12, 21-10 in just 42 minutes.

This win was particularly meaningful for the Korean star, who last won the Japan Open in 2022. The consistency, control, and mental strength she displayed throughout the week emphasize just how tough she is to beat right now.

How Much Did They Earn As Japan Open 2025 Winners

At the Japan Open 2025, Shi Yuqi and An Se Young each won the singles title in their categories. For their victories, both were awarded $66,500 in prize money, while Alex Lanier and Wang Zhiyi took home $32,300.

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The Japan Open 2025 has brought together some of the best badminton players from around the world, and it’s down to the final stage. The tournament, held in Tokyo, has seen plenty of action and surprises in both the men’s and women’s singles events. Let’s take a look at the Japan Open 2025 finalists and who is likely to lift the trophy.

Who Are The Japan Open 2025 Finalists In Singles?

Japan Open 2025 Finalists: Women’s Singles

An Se-young (Korea): The world number one, An Se-young, has reached the final with dominant performances throughout the tournament. In the semi-finals, she defeated Japan’s Riko Gunji in straight games, showing why she’s regarded as one of the top players in women’s badminton right now.

Wang Zhiyi (China): On the other side of the draw, Wang Zhiyi has also looked strong. She booked her place in the final after defeating Akane Yamaguchi, the home favorite and third seed. It’s shaping up to be an exciting title match between the top two seeds.

Japan Open 2025 Finalists: Men’s Singles

Alex Lanier (France): Alex Lanier has made headlines by reaching the final after some impressive wins. His run included beating tough opponents in the later stages, making him a player to watch in the final round.

Koki Watanabe (Japan): Home favourite, Koki Watanabe, has powered his way to the final. This is his first Japan Open final, and playing in front of a home crowd will certainly give him a boost.

Who Could Win Among The Japan Open 2025 Finalists?

Japan Open 2025 Finalists: An Se-young vs. Wang Zhiyi

An Se-young has been simply outstanding this season, with six title wins already under her belt. Her straight-game win in the semis suggests she’s in top form coming into the final. Wang Zhiyi is a strong opponent and has upset big names to get here, but An’s consistency and composure in pressure moments put her slightly ahead in this contest.

Prediction:
An Se-young is the favorite to win the women’s singles title, but don’t rule out Wang Zhiyi if she can bring her best game on the day.

Japan Open 2025 Finalists: Alex Lanier vs. Koki Watanabe

The men’s singles final is a bit more open. Alex Lanier has had a breakthrough run and will give everything for his first Japan Open title. However, Koki Watanabe has the home advantage, which could play a big part, especially in a close contest. Watanabe’s ability to handle pressure and his strong support from the Japanese fans might just make the difference.

Prediction:
It’s a close call, but Koki Watanabe could edge it thanks to the backing of the home crowd and his determination to win his first title at this event.

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