Home fans spur Shi to World Tour Finals title

China's Shi Yuqi capped a stellar season with victory at the BWF (Badminton World Federation) World Tour Finals on Dec 15, after defeating Denmark's Anders Antonsen 21-18, 21-14 in the men's singles title decider.

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HANGZHOU -

Showing just why he was named the BWF Male Player of the Year just days earlier, he emerged victorious at the prestigious season-ending tournament to add to his four other BWF titles and Thomas Cup victory with China in 2024.

It was Shi's second World Tour Finals victory, adding to his 2018 triumph, also in China.

"Playing at home makes me very happy," said the 28-year-old, who threw his sweat-drenched shirt into the ecstatic crowd at the Hangzhou Olympic Sports Centre after winning. "These people are very passionate and supportive."

The world No. 1, who earned US$200,000 (S$270,000) in prize money, added: "For my second World Tour Finals title, I just see it as a normal tournament. I played at my best to show my value on court. I hope I've made everyone happy."

Shi had ended Dane Viktor Axelsen's long reign as the men's top-ranked player in June.

Axelsen, who beat Shi in the 2023 final, was not in China to defend his title. The two-time Olympic champion had pulled out before the competition, citing an injury.