Published: 09:26, January 7, 2026
Strong performance from Chinese shuttlers on opening day at Malaysia Open 2026
By Xinhua
Shi Yuqi of China hits a return during the first round of the men's singles at the Malaysia Open badminton tournament in Kuala Lumpur on Jan 6, 2025. (PHOTO / XINHUA)

KUALA LUMPUR - Chinese shuttlers made a solid start at the Malaysia Open 2026 on Tuesday, advancing in several categories on the opening day.

World No 1 Shi Yuqi opened with a win over Denmark's Rasmus Gemke 23-21, 21-15 at the Axiata Arena.

In women's singles, Chen Yufei fought back to beat Thailand's Pitchamon Opatniputh 10-21, 21-13, 21-16, while Han Yue defeated South Korea's Kim Ga-eun 21-16, 21-10.

Liu Shengshu (right) and Tan Ning of China compete against Francesca Corbett and Jennie Gai of the United States during the first round of the women's doubles at the Malaysia Open badminton tournament in Kuala Lumpur on Jan 6, 2025. (PHOTO / XINHUA)

In women's doubles, Liu Shengshu and Tan Ning beat the United States pair of Francesca Corbett and Jennie Gai 21-8, 21-16.

In mixed doubles, Feng Yanzhe and Huang Dongping advanced after their Malaysian opponents retired after the first game. Cheng Xing and Zhang Chi beat their Japanese opponents 18-21, 22-20, 21-15, while Guo Xinwa and Chen Fanghui defeated their Scottish opponents 21-16, 21-10.

In men's doubles, Liang Weikeng and Wang Chang and the pair of Chen Boyang and Liu Yi were eliminated.

READ MORE: Shi, An kick off BWF World Tour Finals with victories in Hangzhou

The Malaysia Open runs from Jan 6 to 11.