RI Shuttler Fardhan Rainanda Advances to Asian Junior Semifinals

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Indonesia’s men’s singles shuttler Fardhan Rainanda Joe advanced to the semifinals of the Asian Junior Championships 2026 after defeating Malaysia’s eighth seed Kong Wei Xiang 21‑19, 22‑20.

The match, held at the Yatsushiro City General Gymnasium in Kumamoto, Japan, on Friday, July 3, 2026, highlighted Fardhan’s resilience under pressure.

The victory was far from easy, as Fardhan faced tight challenges in both games. He trailed 13‑18 in the second set before regrouping to secure the win in straight games.

“In the second game I was behind 13‑18, but my coach reminded me to focus point by point,” Fardhan said in a PBSI statement, as quoted by Antara. He added that his opponent’s fast tempo forced him to adjust quickly, but persistence allowed him to regain control.

In the opening game, Fardhan executed his coach’s instructions to take early control. Kong responded after the interval, pushing the scoreline close, but Fardhan held firm to close the set 21‑19.

The second game proved tougher as Kong increased the pace, leaving Fardhan trailing. Staying calm, the Indonesian collected points steadily before sealing the match 22‑20.

This result keeps alive Fardhan’s ambition to improve on his 2025 Asian Junior bronze medal, where he lost in the semifinals to compatriot Moh. Zaki Ubaidillah. “My motivation this year is to upgrade the medal. Hopefully I can win and continue Indonesia’s tradition of success in men’s singles,” he said.

Fardhan acknowledged that all remaining players have equal chances to progress further. He stressed the importance of maintaining focus and mental strength ahead of his semifinal clash against China’s Lui Jing Yu. ***