China sent out an early warning to Paris 2024 medal hopefuls by producing world champions in six of the seven wheelchair categories set to be contested at the Paralympic Games in August.

On finals day at the NSDF Royal Beach Cliff BWF Para Badminton World Championships 2024 in Pattaya, Thailand, China won 13 gold medals across 22 categories, including standing events. The tournament is the last qualifying event for the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games, with the players looking to make big gains in the rankings.

Liu Yutong got the party started with China’s first title in WH2 women’s singles over defending champion Pilar Jauregui Cancino, winning 21-8 21-4. Liu, and WH1-2 doubles partner Qu Zimo, both picked up an incredible three world titles each by the end of the day. This is the first time the duo have teamed up at a World Championships in mixed doubles.

“It’s wonderful. I feel great. Making three finals is tough but I’m glad I could win (all). Now it’s time to rest before we start planning our next event,” said Liu.

Next up, teammate Yin Menglu collected her first world title in singles after coming close at the 2019 edition, turning her bronze in WH1 women’s singles to gold five years later. The 2022 Asian Para Games winner captured gold in women’s doubles in Basel.

“I’m so happy,” said Yin. “This is everything I’ve been working towards. The goal was gold and now I have it. I will cheer on my teammates in the other events.”

Double Paralympic gold medallist Qu put his success down to his partners. The 22-year-old adds to his World Championships gold from 2019 in WH1 singles and men’s doubles.

“I want to thank Liu. She was at her best today, and also Mai Jianpeng. I was so glad to have my partners for court coverage and support,” he said. “After a week of a lot of matches, I want to sleep and make sure I have good rest. I’m not thinking about the Paralympics just yet. The focus was the World Championships.”

Japan’s Daiki Kajiwara got a second world title under his belt as he defeated Korean Yu Sooyoung 21-16 21-10 in the WH2 men’s singles final.

“The scoreline doesn’t reflect how hard Yu worked. He’s fast and has great skills. He’s a player to watch. The win boosts my confidence before the Paralympic Games,” said Kajiwara.

“I’m really happy. My favourite Japanese food is shabu shabu. That’s what I hope to eat for dinner.”

→ Results (Finals)

WHAT OTHERS SAID:

“It’s been a great experience playing at the World Championships. I met a lot of great people and got to practice my English a little. All the players have been warm and welcoming.” – Yang Tong on the positives he takes away from Pattaya