PORT VILA, VANUATU—Last week, the Vanuatu Badminton Association (VBA) was officially welcomed as a member of the Badminton World Federation (BWF), a milestone moment for the country’s newest sporting body. The announcement comes less than a year after VBA was founded, and just months after joining the Vanuatu Association of Sports and National Olympic Committee…
PORT VILA, VANUATU — With a population of just over 300,000, Vanuatu is home to stunning landscapes and adventure activities galore. And now, following a decision from BWF this past week, it is also officially home to the world’s newest badminton Member country. This significant milestone marks Vanuatu Badminton Association’s official recognition as the 18th…
GOROKA, PAPUA NEW GUINEA — Once confined to Port Moresby and its surrounds, badminton in Papua New Guinea is now finding a new life in the Eastern Highlands – thanks to Inclusive GymBad’s grassroots efforts. After a successful trip to Goroka in the Eastern Highlands in 2024, the crew returned to the area last month…
SAIPAN, NMI — While our region’s budding stars battled for glory at the VICTOR Oceania Junior Championships, a few of our other rising talents flew under the radar. Five young local technical officials—Kyle Salcedo, Daniell Pablo, Rolando Gallardo, Paulo Quidato, and Brian Lubao—were stepping into their first international roles under the guidance of Pacific Accredited Umpire…
The semifinals delivered a fantastic showcase of skill, strategy, and resilience across all categories at the CENTURY INSURANCE Saipan International. From intense singles battles to dynamic doubles matchups, players from Japan, Korea, and India fought hard for a place in the finals. With rematches, upsets, and more standout performances, the stage is now set for…
As the CENTURY INSURANCE Saipan International entered its third day, the intensity on court continued to build. With semifinal spots on the line, players returned with renewed focus and determination, many facing familiar opponents from last week’s CROWNE PLAZA Northern Marianas Open. The day was marked by thrilling rematches, tactical battles, and standout performances across…
Day two of the CENTURY INSURANCE Saipan International saw emotions run high and rivalries take centre stage as players fought through the Round of 16. With new pairings and intense matchups, the tournament continued to deliver drama and excitement across every event. As the field narrows, anticipation builds for what promises to be a gripping…
REPEATING HISTORY Kim Dae Heun, runner-up of the CROWNE PLAZA Northern Marianas Open 2025, will not progress beyond the first round of the CENTURY INSURANCE Saipan International. In an unlucky draw, Kim went up against the only person he lost to in last week’s competition, Yudai Okimoto (JPN). The match felt like déjà vu. Much…
The final day of competition delivered a thrilling conclusion to the CROWNE PLAZA Northern Marianas Open, with athletes leaving everything on the court in pursuit of glory. From tactical masterclasses to emotional comebacks, each match highlighted the depth of talent and determination among the players. With Japan dominating the finals lineup and standout performances from…
In arguably the most exciting day of the tournament so far, semifinals day of the CROWNE PLAZA Northern Marianas Open 2025 had it all. From major upsets to long-lasting matches, there was not a dull moment in the Gilbert C. Ada Gymnasium today. With all but four matches going to three games, it took incredible…