Anya Butterworth will arrive at BWF Para Badminton World Championships 2026 high on confidence after a standout start to the new season at the Egypt Para Badminton International.
The 18-year-old rising star enjoyed a golden week in Cairo, claiming two titles and further underlining her growing status as one of British Para badminton’s most exciting prospects as she prepares for the sport’s biggest stage in Manama, Bahrain.
In Egypt two weeks ago, Butterworth was at her best in both SH6 women’s singles and mixed doubles. Partnering Jack Shephard – with whom she was crowned European champion in October – the English pair won all three of their round-robin matches to seal the mixed doubles title.
“To be European champions last year and then to go into Egypt, we’ve developed a good relationship on and off court which has benefited us so much,” Butterworth told Lancashire Times. “We flow well on court, communicate well and to come away with gold shows how far we’ve progressed as a pair.”
Her singles campaign was equally convincing. Seeded second, Butterworth powered past Elif Dokuzluoglu in the semifinals before producing an assured performance against India’s Manisha Patel, winning 21-16 21-14.
“For Egypt specifically in the singles, there were key bits from training that I saw myself using,” Butterworth reflected. “To see things pay off that I’ve really clamped down on is very rewarding. It’s like a benchmark for where I am in the grand scheme of things.”
Beyond the medals, Egypt also served as a valuable measuring stick ahead of the World Championships, offering competitive match play and early-season clarity.
“With this tournament being the first of the year, it was a positive experience,” Butterworth added. “Performing well personally and also as a team has given us a confidence boost going into this year.”
As the countdown continues, Butterworth will head to Manama with belief and momentum firmly on her side.
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