The Second Player Ever to Achieve Career Grand Slam
A 24-year-old badminton champion completed her Career Grand Slam after winning the Asian Championships in April. This extraordinary achievement requires victories across four major competitions: the Olympics, World Championships, Continental Multi-Sport Games, and Continental Championships.
Only two female singles players have ever accomplished this feat in badminton history—Carolina Marin from Spain and this Korean athlete. The Asian Championships victory felt especially meaningful as it completed the grand slam collection.
“My strong physical endurance and mental toughness training have been the driving forces. The results reflect all the effort invested over the years as a professional athlete. Now I’ve set a fresh goal: defending the Asian Games singles title.”
Dominant Season Performance
The world’s top-ranked women’s singles player has been unstoppable this season. Starting with the Malaysia Open championship in late January, she followed up with the India Open title and reached the All England Open finals in March. Her April triumph at the Asian Championships sealed the Career Grand Slam.
Her greatest weapons? Tireless stamina and unbreakable mental strength—qualities that even her Chinese rivals acknowledge with respect.
“I focus on each point individually. When too many thoughts fill your mind during a match, you become rushed and decision-making suffers. That’s why I concentrate on one point at a time and quickly move past any mistakes.”
Uber Cup Triumph Without Dropping a Game
At the World Women’s Team Championships (Uber Cup) held in Horsens, Denmark in early May, she played a pivotal role as the lead player. From the group stage through quarterfinals, semifinals, and the final, she never lost a single game—defeating their long-time rival nation to claim the championship.
Her dominant performance even inspired overseas media to coin a new term describing the fear opponents feel facing her.
“Championship moments always feel fresh. Team victories are especially meaningful because they can’t be achieved alone—sharing joy with everyone makes it deeply significant. Rewarding all those who support and help me is the greatest motivation for strong results.”
Unfazed by Rule Changes
Badminton will transition from the current 21-point system to a 15-point format starting next year. Some observers suggest this change targets players who excel through superior stamina and late-game strength. However, the champion remains unconcerned.
“I don’t view the 15-point format as a measure against me. The scoring system change isn’t a major issue. With continued effort and adequate adaptation time, there won’t be any problems from this adjustment.”
Eyes Set on Asian Games Defense
Despite an already remarkable season, the hunger for more trophies remains strong. In September, she’ll attempt to defend her women’s singles title at the Asian Games—aiming for back-to-back gold medals.
“Major competitions remain ahead, but my goal stays constant: maintaining peak performance without injury and consistently showing fans my best. I’ll continue giving my absolute best just as I have until now.”