Sports | Sports general
input2026-01-05 06:49:00
‘World’s Strongest’ Ahn Se-young, 2026 schedule begins in earnest
2025 spent at the top
The burden of protecting the throne
“I try to have an attitude of learning”
[스포츠서울 | 강윤식 기자] “As a badminton player, I try to have an attitude of learning.”
I truly had the ‘best year’. By writing numerous records, he proved why he is the ‘world’s strongest.’ We will leave the brilliant year of 2025 behind and run again in 2026. There is a lot of pressure as we reach the peak. I just plan to approach it with the attitude of learning. This is the story of Ahn Se-young (24, Samsung Life Insurance).
2025 was Ahn Se-young’s year. Starting with the Malaysia Open, which was the first tournament of the year, he swept the championship trophy without hesitation. He recorded a whopping 11 wins in one season, including the Badminton World Federation (BWF) World Tour Finals held at the end of the year. This is a tie for the most wins in a single season in badminton history.
What’s more surprising is the win rate. Ahn Se-young played in 77 games this season, recording only 4 losses and leaving behind an astonishing 94.8% win rate. This is the highest winning percentage in a single season in badminton history for both men and women, and no player has ever surpassed this. In addition, another milestone was set: exceeding $1 million in cumulative prize money in a single season. This is also a first in badminton history.
Of course, it is a meaningful year for me as well. In an interview with Sports Seoul, Ahn Se-young looked back, “I was able to see myself becoming stronger in 2025. Although there were challenges, there were still few moments of regret. I seem to be getting better at overcoming difficult times and injuries. It was a satisfying year because I felt myself becoming stronger.”
I feel satisfied with my growth, but I also feel burdened at the same time. A world-class position maintained with splendid records. Numerous challengers are aiming for Ahn Se-young’s seat. 2026 is the year we must overcome this burden. I try to remain calm.
Ahn Se-young confessed, “Of course, I feel pressure about being in the best position.” He said emphatically, “To relieve the pressure, I remind myself that I am not a top player but just a badminton player. I try to have the attitude of always learning.”
We also didn’t forget what needs to be improved. We want to raise our offensive power, which is already considered to have grown to a higher level. Ahn Se-young explained, “There are still too many things we are lacking. What we always worry about is our offensive ability. We are trying to improve this area further.”
In addition, starting in 2026, badminton will change from a 21-point system to a 15-point system. For Ahn Se-young, whose greatest strength is her stamina, the shorter match may act as a variable. Seyoung Ahn said, “It will be difficult to adapt at first, but I think I will be able to adapt well.”
2026 is the year of the ‘Red Horse’. Ahn Se-young, born in 2002, is also a ‘Maltista’. 2026 is a year that means a lot to me, so I have no choice but to have special resolutions.
Ahn Se-young said, “I want to repeat the good results I had last year. There are many important games this year, so I want to achieve good results in those competitions.” ‘World’s Strongest’ Ahn Se-young’s clock does not stop. Clear the record and move toward a new record. skywalker@sportsseoul.com
