Orléans, France – French duo Thom Gicquel and Delphine Delrue continued their impressive run at the Orleans Masters on Friday, securing a spot in the semifinals of the Super 300 tournament. The top-seeded pair, competing on home soil, have now won three consecutive matches, demonstrating their strength and consistency throughout the event.
The path to the semifinals wasn’t without its challenges. Following a hard-fought victory against Rohan Kapoor and Ruthvika Shivani Gadde on Thursday, Gicquel and Delrue faced Cheng Xing and Zhang Chi of China. The match, like the previous day’s, extended to three games, ultimately ending in a 21-9, 21-23, 21-17 victory for the French team. Despite a dominant first game, the Chinese pair proved resilient, pushing Gicquel and Delrue to the limit in the second and third.
Gicquel, originally from Tours, and Delrue have consistently ranked among the top mixed doubles players in France and internationally. According to information from the Badminton World Federation (BWF), as of March 3, 2026, they currently hold the world No. 5 ranking in mixed doubles. Thom Gicquel has a career that includes success at the junior level, winning gold medals at the 2017 European Junior Championships in both the mixed team and boys’ doubles events.
Rematch Set with Previous Opponents
The semifinal matchup will be a familiar one for Gicquel and Delrue. They will face Liu Kuang Heng and Jheng Yu Chieh of Taiwan, a pairing currently ranked 46th in the world. Notably, this Taiwanese duo defeated Gicquel and Delrue in the first round of the 2025 Orleans Masters, making this a crucial opportunity for the French team to avenge that earlier loss. The 2025 defeat adds an extra layer of motivation as they aim to advance further in this year’s tournament.
The Orleans Masters is a significant event on the BWF World Tour, attracting top badminton players from around the globe. The tournament provides valuable ranking points and serves as vital preparation for upcoming major championships, including the World Championships and the Olympic Games. For Gicquel and Delrue, a strong performance at the Orleans Masters not only boosts their ranking but also provides a confidence boost as they continue their pursuit of international success.
The French pair’s success at the Orleans Masters is particularly noteworthy given their status as the top seeds. This designation reflects their consistent performance and established reputation within the badminton community. Their ability to live up to expectations and deliver results under pressure is a testament to their skill and dedication.
Thom Gicquel’s height of 1.86m (6 ft 1 in) and weight of 81 kg (179 lb) contribute to his physical presence on the court, while Delphine Delrue’s agility and precision complement his strengths. Their partnership is built on a strong understanding and seamless coordination, allowing them to effectively cover the court and execute their strategies.
Beyond their individual achievements, Gicquel and Delrue have also represented France in numerous international team competitions, including the World Championships, European Games, and European Championships. Their contributions to the French national team have been instrumental in elevating the country’s standing in the world of badminton. They secured a gold medal at the 2024 European Championships, adding to their impressive list of accolades.
The semifinal match against Liu and Jheng is scheduled for Saturday, March 21st, and promises to be a thrilling contest. Fans can expect a high-level battle as Gicquel and Delrue look to overcome their previous defeat and secure a spot in the final. The outcome of this match will undoubtedly have significant implications for their ranking and their overall performance in the tournament.
The Orleans Masters continues to showcase the best of badminton, and the performance of Thom Gicquel and Delphine Delrue has been a highlight for the home crowd. Their journey through the tournament has been marked by resilience, determination, and a commitment to excellence. As they prepare for the semifinal clash, they will undoubtedly draw strength from the support of their fans and their unwavering belief in their abilities.
Following the semifinal match, the final will be held on Sunday, March 22nd, crowning the champions of the Orleans Masters 2026. The tournament is presented by VICTOR, a leading manufacturer of badminton equipment, and is attracting significant attention from badminton enthusiasts worldwide.
What are your thoughts on Gicquel and Delrue’s chances in the semifinals? Share your predictions in the comments below!
