RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Indonesian men’s singles shuttler Alwi Farhan booked his place in the last 16 of the Singapore Open 2026 after defeating France’s Toma Junior Popov in straight games at the Singapore Indoor Stadium, Kallang, on Tuesday, May 26, 2026.

The 21-year-old secured victory in 46 minutes with scores of 21-19, 21-14. After the match, Alwi expressed gratitude for the win, noting it was a chance to avenge Indonesia’s earlier loss to France in the Thomas Cup.

“First of all, I’m grateful I was able to execute what I’ve been training for these past weeks. The Thomas Cup result was tough for us, but we’ve tried to improve, and hopefully, the evaluations will make us stronger moving forward,” he said.

Alwi explained that Popov attempted to unsettle him with mind games, but he remained focused on his own play. “Today, Toma tried some psywar tactics, but I didn’t let it affect me. I just wanted to stay focused on myself. It’s not a big deal; it’s part of the game,” he remarked.

Next, Alwi will face world No. 1 Shi Yu Qi of China. Despite the challenge, he sees the encounter as motivation.

“Meeting Shi Yu Qi in the round of 16 is important for me. I’ve lost before, but today he played first and won, which motivates me to do the same. He’s someone I look up to, so this match will be special,” Alwi said.

Coinciding with the celebration of Eid al-Adha, Alwi hopes the occasion will bring him blessings. “Hopefully, I can go further in this blessed week of Eid al-Adha,” he concluded. (Diffa Sephiawardhani)