An Se-young Claims 49th Title at Korea Open
World number one An Se-young secured her 49th career title by defeating Japan’s Akane Yamaguchi 2-1 at the 2026 BWF World Tour Korea Open in Yeosu, mt.co.kr reported.
The 24-year-old South Korean star posted set scores of 21-12, 15-21, and 21-16 at Jinnam Gymnasium, avenging her loss to Yamaguchi in the previous year’s tournament final.
An Breaks Tournament Win Record with 49th Title
The victory extended An’s winning streak to 55 matches, bringing her season record to 71 wins and one loss. She also secured her second year with 11 tournament victories.
With her 49th career title, An surpassed the previous record of 47 tournament wins held by Susi Susanti. She also notched her 11th head-to-head win against Yamaguchi.
Overcoming Injury for Home Fans
An initially hesitated to enter the Super 500 tournament due to ongoing ankle and knee pain from a demanding international travel schedule. She ultimately decided to compete to honor the expectations of home supporters, opting to skip the upcoming Kumamoto Masters in Japan instead.
“It feels very new and different,” An said after the match, according to mt.co.kr. “Seeing so many fans made my heart ache with emotion. I realized once again that there were so many badminton fans. It was very rewarding and wonderful.”
The Question of Greatest of All Time
When asked by reporters about the assessment that she is the greatest badminton player of all time following her record-breaking run, An offered a measured response.
“I am just grateful that people say such things,” An told mt.co.kr. “I still have many days of training and playing left. After my career in the sport is finished, then I will think about whether or not I am the GOAT.”
Earlier coverage: An Se-young claims 11th title of the season at Korea Open
