Indonesia's Anthony Ginting Reflects on Defeat, Calls for Tactical Improvements

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Indonesia’s men’s singles ace Anthony Sinisuka Ginting admitted the need to refine his playing strategy after bowing out in the round of 16 at the BWF World Tour Super 500 Malaysia Masters 2026.

At the Axiata Arena in Kuala Lumpur on Thursday, May 21, 2026, Ginting fell to France’s third seed Christo Popov in straight games, 17-21, 14-21.

“Future evaluations will focus more on playing patterns, because every match presents different situations,” Ginting said in a statement released by the Indonesian Bandminton Association (PBSI) after the match, as quoted by Antara.

The West Java-born shuttler acknowledged Popov’s growing maturity compared to their previous encounters.

In the opening game, Ginting kept pace early but lost momentum after the interval, admitting lapses in discipline allowed his opponent to dictate play. In the second game, he attempted to adjust his strategy, but Popov anticipated the changes effectively.

Ginting described Popov as a resilient player who demands patience throughout the contest. “Christo is one of those players who is tough and safe. It’s not easy to score points against him, so you have to be prepared to work hard,” he explained.

He also noted Popov’s ability to adapt quickly during rallies, a factor that made the Frenchman difficult to contain. “Overall, his game hasn’t changed much, but he can switch strategies on court very quickly and anticipate well,” Ginting observed.

The loss means Indonesia has one fewer representative in the men’s singles quarterfinals. Popov will next face Mohammad Zaki Ubaidillah, who advanced after defeating South Korea’s Jeon Hyeok Jin 21-10, 16-21, 21-16. ***