Christo Popov advanced to the semifinals of the French Open Super 750 at the Arena Grand Paris after defeating Japan’s Kodai Naraoka 21-15, 21-16, according to a report published by La Provence.
The younger Popov brother secured the straight-sets victory by dictating the pace early in each game and neutralizing late rallies from the world number nine. He enters Saturday’s matches as a tournament favorite looking to defend ranking points earned during his runner-up finish at the tournament last year.
Quarterfinal Victories and Tactical Control at Arena Grand Paris
Christo Popov controlled the court against Naraoka by seizing early leads in both games.
“It’s very positive,” Christo Popov said, according to La Provence. “Last night, I was worried, but I have confidence in my body and my recovery. It was a big match against Kodai.”
The win sets up a semifinal meeting with China’s Hu Zhe An. Hu advanced to the final four after defeating several prominent players in earlier rounds. Because the two competitors have never faced each other on the international circuit, Christo Popov said physical recovery is essential before their Saturday encounter.
“We’ll see how our two games match up,” Christo Popov said, as reported by La Provence. “He’s a Chinese player who plays very well, who has good management on the rallies. He is capable of taking out the big players. But the main thing now will be to recover well.”
Toma Junior Popov Falls Just Short Against Alex Lanier
While Christo Popov advanced, the tournament run for his older brother, Toma Junior Popov, ended in the quarterfinals following a tight three-game battle against Alex Lanier, 21-16, 16-21, 16-21.
Toma Junior Popov came close to securing another major upset after previously eliminating world number one Kunlavut Vitidsarn earlier in the week. The elder Popov brother dominated the second half of the opening game, surging from behind to win 21-16, but could not maintain the advantage as the reigning world champion fought back.
“He played at an exceptional level,” Lanier said of Toma Junior Popov, according to La Provence. “He pushed me further than I could have imagined. There were times when I doubted, I felt in danger. I’m glad I won that one.”
Popov and Lanier Compete in Semifinal Matchups
With the quarterfinal round concluded, the tournament schedule moves into the penultimate stage at the Arena Grand Paris. Christo Popov represents French hopes in the upper half of the draw against Hu Zhe An, defending the points acquired in 2025 at the world ranking.
In the lower half of the draw, Alex Lanier prepares to face Indonesia’s Ubaidillah, representing the rising generation of international badminton competition. The matches determine which finalists secure the Super 750 titles and valuable world ranking points on the global circuit.
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