Hosts China started their title defense in the 2025 Sudirman Cup with a commanding 5-0 victory over Algeria in the first round of the group stage on Sunday.
The match began with world No. 1 mixed doubles pair Jiang Zhengbang and Wei Yaxin, who had no trouble overcoming Koceila Mammeri and Tanina Violettle Mammeri. The Chinese duo triumphed with a 21-11, 21-13 scoreline in the opening tie.
“It’s exciting to make our Sudirman Cup debut in China’s first match,” Wei commented. “Team competitions feel very different from tour events—every point matters for the squad.”
The momentum continued as world No. 2 Wang Zhiyi and top-ranked men’s singles player Shi Yuqi both secured 2-0 wins, giving China an unassailable 3-0 lead. “Playing my fifth Sudirman Cup shows I’ve maintained my level for a long time,” said Shi.
The doubles matches followed suit, with Paris Olympic gold medalists Chen Qingchen and Jia Yifan winning their women’s event, and debutants Chen Boyang and Liu Yi sealing the sweep for China with identical 2-0 victories.
In another Group A match, Thailand joined China at the top of the standings with a 5-0 sweep over Hong Kong, China.
Other notable results saw South Korea, four-time champions, securing a 4-1 win over Czechia in Group B, while Chinese Taipei also won 4-1 against Canada. Denmark triumphed 4-1 over India in Group D, and Indonesia demolished England 5-0.
The Sudirman Cup, badminton’s premier mixed-team championship, continues through May 4.
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