RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Indonesia’s young shuttler Alwi Farhan extended his remarkable run at the BWF World Tour Super 750 Singapore Open 2026, advancing to the semifinals after defeating Japan’s Kodai Naraoka in straight games.

Alwi sealed the quarterfinal victory 21-12, 21-17 in 56 minutes at the Singapore Indoor Stadium on Friday, May 29, 2026, maintaining the momentum he built a day earlier when he stunned world No. 1 Shi Yu Qi of China in a thrilling three-game battle.

Reflecting on his breakthrough, Alwi expressed gratitude and determination.

“Alhamdulillah (All praises to Allah), thank you to everyone who supported me in tough conditions. I’m happy and proud to gain experience against the world’s No. 1, but the journey isn’t over. I must stay focused for the next rounds,” he said, as quoted on the Indonesian Badminton Association's (PBSI) official website.

He admitted that his earlier victory over Shi Yu Qi was a turning point in his confidence.

“The Thomas Cup was a tough period for me, but this experience proves I can overcome fear and anxiety. I believe God has prepared a better plan for me, so I must accept it with maturity. It’s not an easy journey, but I have to enjoy it in every condition,” Alwi explained.

Against Naraoka, Alwi showed composure from the start. After a tight opening, he surged ahead to lead 11-6 at the interval before closing the first game 21-12 with a decisive run of five straight points.

In the second game, he raced to a 4-0 lead and maintained control until Naraoka fought back to level at 16-16. But Alwi kept his cool in the critical moments, regaining the lead at 18-16 and sealing the match 21-17.

Alwi acknowledged the importance of staying calm under pressure.

“Several times I’ve learned from experience that wanting too much to win can lead to mistakes. So when I lost the second game against Shi Yu Qi, I tried to stay calm and refocus, because I knew the match wasn’t over and both of us still had the same chance to win,” he said.

The victory keeps Indonesia’s hopes alive in the men’s singles category. Alwi will next face the winner between Anders Antonsen of Denmark and Alex Lanier of France in the semifinals. ***