Hagspiel and Au Yeong: Badminton World Cup debut to comeback

Anna Hagspiel and Serena Au Yeong set up at the badminton World Cup in Paris. Their preparation was characterized by pain, rehab and unshakable will.

The stage is world championship and two Vorarlberg women are ready to enter them: Anna Hagspiel (24) and Serena Au Yeong (24) represent Austria in the women’s doubles at the Badminton World Championship 2025 in Paris (August 25th). But the way there was anything but easy.


The two only play together for seven months and have qualified for the World Cup straight away.
©Martin Göggel

Two athletes, one goal – despite setbacks

Since the beginning of February, Hagspiel has been fighting stubborn shoulder pain – of all places. At the European Championship in spring it was clear: it is no longer possible. The Wolfurt woman put the racket aside for two months.

Then she started her basic training as an army athlete – a balancing act between military discipline and sporty rehab. With special exemption, she was at least able to train selectively.

Her partner met even more seriously: the Rankweiler Serena Au Yeong suffered two muscle fiber tears in April. The result: three large thrombosis in the leg, months of rehab, painful patience.


Despite injuries, the two could not be stopped.
©Martin Göggel

The comeback in time for the World Cup

“The goal was always clear: standing on the field again in time for the World Cup,” explains Au Yeong. After four months of consistent rehabilitation, this was achieved – a medical and mental comeback.

Only two weeks before the World Cup launch were able to train together again. Despite the short preparation time, the optimism is noticeable: “We are extremely happy to be back in the field and play against the best in the world.”

“We are ready and proud to represent Austria”

For Au Yeong it is already the fourth World Cup participation-the first for Hagspiel. As a pairing, it is the common debut. They have only been forming a team for seven months, but have still played in 72th place in the world rankings. The start of the tournament against the Spanish duo Lucia Rodriguez and Paula Lopez is a challenge – but no superiority.

“Everything is possible,” the two say. “Of course we give everything, but we also see the World Cup as a step back into everyday tournament life to optimally start qualifying for the European Games.” From an Austrian perspective, in addition to the two Vorarlberg women, Collins Valentine Filimon also starts in the men’s individual in Paris.


Au yeong knows the World Cup air, for Hagspiel it is the premiere.
©Martin Göggel

From zero to World Cup – a comet climb

With first place at the Croatian International, a third place in Portugal and ninth place at the Hylo Open in Germany, the duo qualified for the world championships straight away. The successes show: Your interaction works – even if it only existed on paper for a long time due to injury.

The fact that both belong to the Army Sports Program now helped in preparation. Despite all the adversity, Hagspiel and Au Yeong were able to stick to their dream through coordinated exemptions and flexible training times.


“Everything is possible,” the two say before their joint World Cup debut.
©Martin Göggel

World Cup as a prelude to more

The Badminton World Championships in Paris are not only sporty highlight for the Vorarlberg double-they also mark the emotional turning point after months of uncertainty. A successful appearance would be more than a success: it would be a sign of the unshakable will to make top -class sporting performances possible despite setbacks.


The two Vorarlberg women already have the next destinations in mind.
©Martin Göggel

Key Takeaways: Hagspiel & Au Yeong’s Road to the World Cup

Here’s a swift look at the duo’s journey adn what to expect at the Badminton World Championships in Paris:

Key Aspect Details
Players (Austria) Anna hagspiel & Serena Au Yeong
Event Badminton World Championships 2025, Women’s Doubles
Location paris, France
Qualifying Qualified via strong performances: Croatian International (1st), Portugal (3rd), Hylo Open (9th)
Team Formation Formed team 7 months prior to World Championship
World Ranking Entered the top 100: ranked 72nd
Challenges Overcome Injuries, short planning time, mental and physical rehabilitation.
Key Goal Return to the badminton court & compete in the World Championship
Outlook “Everything is possible” – focusing on performance building towards the European Games.

the grit and determination of Hagspiel and Au Yeong, demonstrated by their commitment to overcome injuries and quickly rise through the ranks, has captured the attention of many fans in the badminton world.

FAQ: Your Questions About Hagspiel & Au Yeong Answered

Get the lowdown on Austria’s badminton stars with these frequently asked questions:

who are Anna Hagspiel and Serena Au Yeong?

Anna Hagspiel and Serena Au yeong are Austrian badminton players competing in women’s doubles. they are representing Austria at the 2025 Badminton World Championships in Paris.

How did they qualify for the World Championship?

They qualified by achieving strong results in key tournaments, including winning the Croatian International, placing third in Portugal, and a top-ten finish at the Hylo Open in germany. These performances demonstrated their skill, teamwork, and determination to compete on the global stage.

What challenges did they face in their preparation?

Both players battled injuries and needed extensive rehabilitation. Despite the setbacks, their unwavering commitment to their goal of competing in the World Championship was key. This involved consistent rehabilitation,and mental fortitude to overcome their injuries.

What is their ranking?

As a relatively new pairing, Hagspiel and au Yeong have impressively climbed the rankings and are now ranked in the top 100 in the world.

What are their goals for the World Championships?

Their primary goal is to perform their best. They also view the World Championships as part of their ongoing preparation for upcoming tournaments, with a focus on qualifying for the European Games. Their participation marks a significant achievement, serving as motivation to inspire athletes around the world.

Where can I follow their matches?

Details about match schedules and viewing options will be available on the Badminton world Federation (BWF) website and various sports news outlets. Stay tuned for updates!

Keywords: Badminton World Championships, Anna Hagspiel, Serena Au Yeong, Austrian Badminton, Paris, women’s doubles, injuries, comeback, sports, Austria, BWF, badminton.

James Whitfield

James Whitfield is Archysport's racket sports and golf specialist, bringing a global perspective to tennis, badminton, and golf coverage. Based between London and Singapore, James has covered Grand Slam tournaments, BWF World Tour events, and major golf championships on five continents. His reporting combines on-the-ground access with deep knowledge of the technical and strategic elements that separate elite athletes from the rest of the field. James is fluent in English, French, and Mandarin, giving him unique access to athletes across the global tennis and badminton circuits.

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