Bao Li Jing/ Cao Zihan Claim First BWF 500-Level Women’s Doubles Title at Thailand Open
By Daniel Richardson, Editor-in-Chief
May 18, 2026
On May 17, 2026, Chinese badminton pair Bao Li Jing and Cao Zihan made history by capturing their first BWF Tour Super 500 women’s doubles title at the Thailand Open. The victory marks a significant milestone in the young careers of the duo, who have steadily climbed the world rankings in 2026.
Historic Victory in Bangkok
The final match, held at the Thailand Badminton Association’s headquarters in Bangkok, saw Bao and Cao overcome a resilient Japanese pair of Natsuki Sato and Rina Tanaka in three games (21-18, 19-21, 21-15). The Chinese pair, ranked No. 18 in the BWF world rankings, displayed exceptional composure under pressure, particularly in the deciding game where they outmaneuvered their opponents with precise net play and aggressive smashes.
This win is particularly notable as it represents Bao and Cao’s first title at the Super 500 level, a step up from the BWF 300 and 400 series tournaments they have previously competed in. The victory elevates their world ranking and positions them as contenders for higher-tier events in 2026, including the upcoming All England Open and the BWF World Championships.
Path to the Title
Bao and Cao’s journey to the final was marked by consistent performances throughout the tournament. They advanced through the draw without dropping a single set in the quarterfinals and semifinals, defeating top-seeded pairs from Indonesia and South Korea. Their ability to adapt to different playing styles and maintain their rhythm in high-stakes matches has drawn praise from coaches and analysts alike.
“This win is a testament to their hard work and dedication,” said Chinese national team coach Li Wei after the match. “They’ve shown they can compete at the highest level and are ready for bigger challenges ahead.”
Implications for the 2026 Season
The Thailand Open victory is a crucial boost for Bao and Cao as they aim to secure a spot in the 2026 BWF World Tour Finals. With the current season nearing its midpoint, the pair now has a strong foundation to build upon as they prepare for the Badminton Asia Championships in June and the European leg of the BWF Tour in July.
For the broader Chinese women’s doubles scene, this win highlights the emergence of a new generation of players. With veteran pairs like Chen Qingchen/Jia Yifan and Wang Yilu/Huang Dongping dominating the sport, Bao and Cao’s success signals a potential shift in the balance of power within the team.
What’s Next?
Bao and Cao will now compete in the BWF World Tour events in Europe, with their next tournament scheduled for the Spain Masters in early June. Their performance in these events will be closely watched as they aim to solidify their position in the top 10 of the world rankings.
The Thai Open victory has also generated significant fan interest in China, with social media platforms like Weibo and WeChat buzzing with celebrations. The pair’s success is expected to inspire a new wave of young players, particularly in the wake of the 2024 Paris Olympics, where Chinese badminton teams secured multiple medals.
As the 2026 season progresses, Bao Li Jing and Cao Zihan will look to build on this momentum, with their sights set on the upcoming BWF World Championships in September. Their journey serves as a reminder of the ever-evolving nature of badminton, where new talents continually rise to challenge established champions.
For now, the pair can savor their historic achievement, knowing they’ve etched their names into the annals of Chinese badminton history.
