Birmingham, England – Thom Gicquel and Delphine Delrue have continued their impressive run at the 2026 All England Open Badminton Championships, securing a spot in the final after a dominant performance against China’s Guo Xinwa and Chen Fanghui. The French duo, building on a breakthrough 2025 that included a Super 1000 title and a historic world medal, overcame their opponents 11-21, 21-18, 21-12 in a match that showcased their resilience and growing confidence on the international stage.
French Pair Overcome Early Setback
Coming into the tournament, Gicquel and Delrue were hoping to build on the momentum of a successful 2025. The All England Open, the second of four Super 1000 events this season, presented a significant opportunity for the French pair to make a statement. They navigated the early rounds with composure, setting up a challenging quarterfinal clash against Jiang Zhenbang and Wei Yaxin, the reigning world championship silver medalists and world No. 2 ranked team. Adding to the challenge, the Chinese pair had won both previous encounters between the two teams, most recently in December at the BWF World Tour Finals.
Despite the daunting challenge, Gicquel and Delrue displayed remarkable composure. After a slow start, they rallied to control the match, demonstrating superior net play and forcing errors from their opponents. The first set saw the French pair quickly establish control, accelerating to a decisive lead at 6-6 and ultimately closing it out 21-16. The second set mirrored the first, with Gicquel and Delrue’s consistent play proving too much for the Chinese duo, securing a 21-16 victory.
“They really turned things around after a difficult start,” noted analysis from L’Équipe following the match. “When they found their rhythm, they were simply irresistible.”
The victory marks a historic achievement for the French pair, reaching the final of the prestigious All England Open. It’s a testament to their dedication and the progress they’ve made as a team.
🏸🇫🇷 VICTOIRE DE NOS BLEUES DELPHINE DELRUE ET THOM GICQUEL, QUI SE QUALIFIENT EN DEMI-FINALES DU ALL ENGLAND OPEN !#lequipeBADMINTON pic.twitter.com/BEPymgGtg3
— L’Équipe (@lequipe) March 6, 2026
Building Momentum from 2025
The success at the All England Open builds on a stellar 2025 for Gicquel and Delrue. Last year saw them claim their first Super 1000 title, a significant milestone in their careers, and add a world medal to their collection. That momentum carried into the early stages of the 2026 season, with the pair clearly aiming to establish themselves among the elite in the world of badminton.
Their quarterfinal victory over Jiang Zhenbang and Wei Yaxin was particularly impressive, given the Chinese pair’s status as world silver medalists. The French duo’s ability to overcome a head-to-head deficit and perform under pressure demonstrates their growing mental fortitude.
The match wasn’t without its challenges. The first set saw the Chinese pair initially take control, establishing a significant lead. Though, Gicquel and Delrue responded effectively, shifting the momentum and ultimately dominating the remainder of the match. Their ability to adapt and execute their game plan under pressure was a key factor in their victory.
What’s Next for the French Duo?
Gicquel and Delrue will now face a yet-to-be-determined opponent in the final of the All England Open on March 7th. While their opponent remains unknown, the French pair will undoubtedly be looking to continue their impressive form and secure their first All England Open title. Their performance throughout the tournament has established them as strong contenders, and they will be eager to capitalize on their momentum.
The All England Open final will be streamed live on L’Équipe, providing fans with the opportunity to witness this exciting match. The French duo will be hoping to replicate their success from last year and add another Super 1000 title to their growing list of achievements.
The tournament is being held at the Utilita Arena Birmingham in Birmingham, England. The city is a major hub for badminton in the United Kingdom, and the Utilita Arena is a world-class venue that has hosted numerous international sporting events. The final is scheduled for tomorrow, March 7th, and promises to be a thrilling conclusion to a captivating tournament.
This victory for Gicquel and Delrue is not just a personal triumph, but too a significant moment for French badminton. It demonstrates the growing strength of the sport in France and inspires a new generation of players to pursue their dreams.
What are your thoughts on Gicquel and Delrue’s incredible run? Share your predictions for the final in the comments below!
