Alex Lanier’s title defence came to an end in the 2026 European Championships quarterfinals.
Lanier was undone in an all-French contest by a composed Arnaud Merkle in a match lasting 76 minutes. Momentum shifted repeatedly throughout but Merkle held firm when it mattered most, claiming a 17-21 21-19 21-18 win to advance to the last four.
Lanier was candid in his assessment afterwards.
“It could have been better. A bit frustrating but at the same time I feel like I gave everything. I couldn’t change my game, I couldn’t be better and that’s how it is sometimes.”
He was also gracious towards his conqueror.
“He played well, he deserved the win. Also, tactically he played better. He definitely deserves this.”
Merkle, for his part, was satisfied with his performance and mentality under pressure.
“I knew I needed to show my best level and I’m proud of the way I managed the match.”
He will face Anders Antonsen in the semifinals after Nhat Nguyen was forced to retire during the opening game of their quarterfinal. It will be the third meeting between Merkle and Antonsen, with the Dane holding a 2-0 head-to-head advantage.
Meanwhile, the women’s doubles title match will see Stefani Stoeva/Gabriela Stoeva and Bengisu Erçetin/Nazlıcan İnci face off, while Callum Hemming/Estelle Van Leeuwen will challenge Mathias Christiansen/Alexandra Bøje for the mixed doubles crown.
Hemming/Van Leeuwen produced the result of the day to reach their first European Championships final, defeating reigning champions Jesper Toft/Amalie Magelund 23-21 21-16. The English pair reach the biggest match of their careers outclassing several seeded pairs, including Thom Gicquel/Delphine Delrue in the Round of 16.
Their approach throughout has been refreshingly uncomplicated. As Van Leeuwen put it: “We are playing with no fear. That’s the most important thing, we are actually having a lot of fun out there.”
“It’s really, really special for us,” added Hemming.
The remaining three disciplines are to be decided Sunday.
Hemming (right) and Van Leeuwen have their eyes on the prize.
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