From Guwahati to Nagoya: Mohammad Zaki Ubaidillah, Indonesia’s Newest Badminton Star
Mohammad Zaki Ubaidillah delivered the decisive point to secure Indonesia’s historic 3–2 comeback victory over China in the men’s team final at the Asian Games in Ichinomiya, Aichi, Japan. The 19-year-old singles player, widely known as Ubed, defeated Weng Hong Yang 23-21, 21-13 on September 24, 2026, capturing the first badminton gold medal for Indonesia at the Aichi-Nagoya Games and capping a thrilling team turnaround.
A Dramatic Comeback After an Early Deficit
Indonesia faced a steep climb in the final after dropping the first two matches. Jonatan Christie fell to Shi Yuqi to put China ahead, and the doubles pair of Fajar Alfian and Muh Shohibul Fikri subsequently lost a tight three-game battle to Liang Weikeng and Wang Chang with scores of 20-22, 21-19, 21-14, leaving the squad staring at a 0–2 deficit.
Relying on a youth-led resurgence, the team rallied. Alwi Farhan sparked the comeback by defeating Li Shifeng 23-21, 15-21, 21-16. Next, the doubles pairing of Leo Rolly Carnando and Daniel Marthin—affectionately dubbed “LeoNiel”—leveled the tie by dispatching He Jiting and Liu Yi 23-21, 21-10, setting the stage for Ubaidillah’s heroics in the fifth rubber.
Rising Through the Ranks: From Junior Standout to Senior Champion
Mohammad Zaki Ubaidillah was born in Sampang, Madura, East Java, on June 26, 2007. He picked up a racket at age five. His rapid ascension through the Badminton Association of Indonesia (PBSI) national training center saw him claim the boys’ singles title at the Badminton Asia Junior Championships in Solo, where he swept Liu Yang Ming Yu 21-12, 21-17. He followed that breakthrough with a silver medal at the 2025 BWF World Junior Championships and a senior BWF World Tour Super 300 title at the Thailand Masters in February 2026.
Compatriot Alwi Farhan noted Ubaidillah’s performance. “What Ubed did at age 18 is completely unbelievable to me. He can play like this, like someone who has been at the top level for a long time,” Alwi said in a PBSI statement.
Personal Motivation and Idols
Ubaidillah frequently draws inspiration from his late grandfather, a badminton supporter who passed away before witnessing his grandson’s international achievements. “I’ve always wanted to succeed and make him proud, even though he passed away before I achieved international victories,” Ubaidillah shared in an interview with The Indian Express. To maintain balance away from the court, Ubaidillah enjoys listening to music and playing football.
He also models his game after stars, combining the speed and character of Anthony Sinisuka Ginting, the rhythm of Lin Dan, and the confidence of Alwi Farhan. Having now secured a team gold for Indonesia, Ubaidillah continues to balance youthful ambition with the rigorous discipline demanded by Indonesia’s badminton pedigree.
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