The BWF World Junior Championships is commonly recognised as a window into the next generation of players. The 24th edition of the premier junior tournament (7-13 October 2024), held in Nanchang earlier this month, offered the best platform for the cream of the world’s talent to display their wares. Here are some of those who stole the show, with the promise of more to come:
Hu Zhe An (China)
Runner-up at the last World Juniors, Hu Zhe An has been training with the senior team and is regarded as the one to pick up the mantle of men’s singles spearhead in the not-too-distant future. Hu announced his intention to win gold at the World Juniors, which he did while dropping only game during the week. In the last two seasons he has made seven finals, winning back-to-back Asia Junior Championships, a Super 100 (Baoji China Masters) and this year’s World Juniors.
Moh. Zaki Ubaidillah (Indonesia)
His smooth movement, anticipation and flowing strokes hold promise for Indonesia’s men’s singles. At the World Juniors he was on song, but couldn’t get it all together in his semifinal against Wang Zi Jun. Nevertheless, he marked his arrival earlier this season with a Super 100 title in Indonesia after making it through the qualification rounds.
Lin Xiang Yi (China)
Had a shot at a double, but could return with only the mixed doubles title (with Liu Yuan Yuan). Lin was a standout in the doubles with his explosive power, and he has already created ripples – winning a double at the Asian Juniors and a mixed doubles crown at the Dutch Junior in March.
Kang Khai Xing/Aaron Tai (Malaysia)
The Malaysian men’s doubles pair stood out for their contrasting styles – Tai, with his outrageous skills at the net, while Kang provided the firepower from the deep. The Malaysians have been in three straight finals this year – winning two, including the TOYOTA International Challenge.
Low Zi Yu (Malaysia)
Just 14, the Malaysian was on the cusp of becoming the youngest winner of the World Juniors. In her only tournament this season, and partnering Danis Sofea for the first time, Low gave a great account of her attacking abilities, and unintimidated by more experienced rivals.
Elsa Jacob (France)
Jacob showed great poise in both her categories – with Camille Pognante in women’s doubles and Tom Lalot Trescarte in the mixed. There have been notable successes this season, with a double at Alpes (Junior International Challenge), and final at the Belgian International.
Aya Tamaki/Ririna Hiramoto (Japan)
The only player to defend her 2023 title was Aya Tamaki, who was with a new partner this time, Ririna Hiramoto. The Tamaki/Hiramoto pair have made headway since pairing up late last year, and while they hadn’t won a title before the World Juniors, were consistent throughout. Somewhat in the mould of her senior Arisa Higashino, Tamaki’s physical style makes her a distinct figure.
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