Ng Ka Long Angus delivered one of the headline upsets in the opening round of the YONEX French Open 2026, overcoming Anders Antonsen 21-18, 21-19 to secure his spot in the last 16.
Facing the Dane—who arrived off back-to-back finals including the Denmark Open—Ng executed a strategic plan to extend rallies and test Antonsen’s stamina, capitalizing on the pair’s familiarity from regular joint training.
“I really hoped he would have a very tired body because of his previous finals… I tried to play longer rallies, so maybe I would have some advantage,” Ng said.
“Every time I get to play against him, I just try to relax and use all my weapons. I need to take out all my weapons in order to win.”
Ng sets up a second-round clash with Alwi Farhan, building on his strong European run, which already includes a victory over Lin Chun-Yi.
Home favorite Alex Lanier, fresh off a Denmark Open triumph, also advanced by defeating Jason Gunawan 21-19, 21-16, with the Paris crowd vocal in support.
“They honestly pushed me today. It’s a pleasure to play [Jason] again after so many years,” Lanier said.
With Shi Yu Qi (2024 champion) withdrawing and applying for a protected ranking, the men’s singles field has opened up, providing new chances for contenders—including Lanier, who next faces Panitchaphon Teeraratakul for the fifth time this year.
Men’s Doubles: Wang/Chiu Overcome Alfian/Fikri with Patience
In men’s doubles, Wang Chi-Lin/Chiu Hsiang Chieh pulled off a surprise by beating Denmark Open champions Fajar Alfian/Muhammad Shohibul Fikri 26-24, 21-13.
“We played more patiently and they weren’t as fast as last week,” Wang observed.
Chiu added, “We’re really strong at the front and today we blocked their advantage.”
The French Open continues with more high-stakes clashes and storylines as the tournament progresses in Paris.
