The YONEX French Open 2026 officially gets underway today at its exciting new venue, Arena Grand Paris! The first match is set for 4pm Kuala Lumpur time (UTC +8), launching a week of top-tier badminton action as the world’s best take the stage.
Home Stars and Big Contenders
French hopes are high with reigning world champion and Denmark Open winner Alex Lanier (seeded seventh) facing off against China Masters winner Jason Gunawan—their first meeting since 2019. Local interest continues with Toma Junior Popov squaring up against top seed Kunlavut Vitidsarn for the sixth time, and last year’s runner-up Christo Popov opening against fellow Frenchman Arnaud Merkle.
Draw Changes and Key Withdrawals
Late withdrawals have shaken up both singles brackets:
Men’s singles: Weng Hong Yang’s exit promotes compatriot Hu Zhe An into the main draw for a second tournament in a row; he’ll take on Victor Lai in round one.
Women’s singles: Eighth seed Tomoka Miyazaki is out as she recovers from a recent injury, prompting a reshuffle that moves Pusarla V. Sindhu into her seed position and a first-round match against Supanida Katethong.
Legends and Rising Stars
Fresh from making history in Odense by clinching her 47th career title, top seed An Se Young is back to defend her crown and starts her campaign against promoted entrant Amalie Schulz.
Key Withdrawals
Men’s singles: Weng Hong Yang
Women’s singles: Tomoka Miyazaki
Promoted to Main Draw
Men’s singles: Hu Zhe An
Women’s singles: Amalie Schulz
With international superstars and homegrown heroes all in action, fans can look forward to a thrilling week at the YONEX French Open 2026.
