Youthful ambition and seasoned experience converge as the BWF Para Badminton World Championships makes its debut in the Middle East, a landmark moment for the sport.
Among those embracing the occasion is Malaysian debutant Muhammad Amin Azmi, who will compete in the SH6 men’s singles and mixed doubles (alongside Nurzammiezatul Syafiqqah Mohamad Zamberi). For the 22-year-old, the opportunity carries special meaning.
“I’m so proud to represent my flag here. It’s also my first World Championships, so I’m excited to have the chance to compete in two categories at once. It will do my confidence a world of good,” said Azmi, who finds himself in good company in the singles group with world No.6 Sivarajan Solaimalai, Huseyin Sagin and Nilton Quispe Ignacio.
While Azmi prepares for his first appearance, Belgian veteran Man Kei To returns for her sixth World Championships. The world No.2 claimed bronze in WH1 women’s singles at the previous edition in Pattaya and had two years earlier won WH1-WH2 women’s doubles silver with Turkey’s Emine Seckin.
“It’s the World Championships – one of the biggest, if not the biggest event,” said To. “I’ve been preparing both physically and technically. We’ve spent a lot of time observing and experimenting with switch driving and different strokes. I’m quite satisfied and I feel my level has improved.”
Sri Lanka’s Sanjeewa Perera Madduma Kaluge is also back in Manama, having competed there at last year’s Bahrain Para Badminton International. The former soldier, who lost his left leg during a war, is determined to better his previous showing.
“I like this country. Everything is good here and the facilities are great,” said the SL4 men’s singles player. “I exited in the last 16 two years ago but this time I’m optimistic I can go a round or two further. I’ve been training well back home and I feel confident.”
Azmi, To and Madduma Kaluge are just three of the 359 players from 54 countries competing this year, making it the largest edition to date, with athletes representing all five continents. Six nations – Bahrain, Estonia, Saudi Arabia, Slovakia, Vanuatu and the UAE – are also making their debut.
The BAHRAIN BWF Para Badminton World Championships 2026 begin on Sunday, with the first match scheduled for 2pm Kuala Lumpur time (UTC +8).
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