New Zealand’s para badminton team is gaining invaluable experience at the World Championships in Bahrain, with Head Coach Duncan Yeow highlighting both the on-court growth and off-court connections as key takeaways from the event so far.
For many of the players, this is their first taste of competition at a Para Badminton World Championships, with Thomas being the only member of the squad who has previously competed at this level. According to Yeow, the exposure has been invaluable.
“Great exposure for the players. Only Thomas has played in a World Championships before,” he shared.
As expected, there were early nerves when the team first took to the courts. However, those nerves quickly settled once competition got underway.
“The players were excited and a bit nervous in the beginning but settled down quickly after their first game,” Yeow said.
Beyond results, one of the standout elements has been the strong sense of unity within the team. The players have supported one another throughout the competition and embraced the wider para badminton community.
“The players remained united, supportive of each other and very quickly made new friends in the para event.”
A major highlight came from Rishikesh Venu, who secured his first-ever SL3 singles win at a Para World Championships. Rishi defeated Bulgaria’s Dimitar Pavlov in straight games, 22–20, 21–12 — a moment that lifted the entire team.
“Rishi won his first-ever SL3 singles Para World Championships game. He was so happy and brought great joy and happiness to the team. It lifted the team spirit to do well in our coming games,” Yeow reflected.
Looking ahead, Yeow believes this group has significant potential for future growth and success on the world stage.
“This team of young para players has so much potential for future growth and to go further in future World Championships events.”
The opportunity to compete alongside and observe the world’s best para badminton players has also been a valuable learning experience.
“It’s a great experience and exciting for the players to meet and watch the world’s best para badminton players in action. There’s plenty to take away from this event.”
Off the court, the overall organisation of the Championships has helped enhance the players’ experience in Bahrain.
“The organisation of the accommodation, transport, food, venue and hall facilities has been top class, and this has added to the experience for the players.”
As the Championships continue, the New Zealand team carries forward not just results, but confidence, connection, and motivation - foundations that will support their development well beyond this event.
