Thomas Cup 2026: China Edges France for Back-to-Back Titles

China holds off France to win Thomas Cup again

France reached its first Thomas Cup final but fell to China after wins from Weng Hongyang and He Jiting/Ren Xiangyu.

He Jiting and Ren Xiangyu sealed China’s victory with a doubles win over Eloi Adam and Leo Rossi...

  

Defending champions China overpowered France on Sunday night, winning 3-1 to take back the Thomas Cup.

It marks China’s 12th title since first lifting the trophy in 1982. For France, reaching the final was the country’s best result in the tournament’s history.

World No. 1 Shi Yuqi edged Christo Popov 21-16, 16-21, 21-17 in an 85-minute clash to secure China’s victory.

In all three sets, Shi had to come from behind as he adjusted his tactics. "I was behind in all three games and tried to calm myself down to find the right way to play my opponent,” said Shi to the BWF website. Shi missed the last two group matches due to acute gastroenteritis. “I kept telling myself to stay clear-minded, patient, and consistent under my current physical condition.”

World No. 4 Christo Popov said he let the chance slip to defeat the reigning world champion when he had it.

“Shi was very sharp and solid at the end, and I made a few mistakes. I feel like I just missed the opportunity,” said the 24-year-old. “The first match is always very important for confidence and for the team.”

France lifted spirits next as World No. 10 Alex Lanier leveled the tie, beating China’s Li Shifeng 21-13, 21-10 in 43 minutes.

“I was extremely consistent today, and that made the difference, especially by limiting mistakes and sticking to the right game plan,” said Lanier. “I woke up with strong motivation this morning and the desire to give everything for the team. I felt confident on court and played one of my best matches.”

“I tried to be patient, but made too many mistakes. I felt sorry that I couldn't secure the second point for my team,” Li said.

The momentum shifted back to the defending champions when World No. 15 Weng Hongyang edged Toma Junior Popov 22-20, 20-22, 21-19 in a 96-minute contest, giving China a 2-1 lead.

“Before the match, I knew it would be very tough. The opponents came through strong matches all the way to the final, so I just tried to prepare myself for a difficult battle,” said Weng.

“This match could be one of the longest I have ever played. It was very valuable for me mentally. Whether I was leading or trailing, there were a lot of long, tight rallies. When I was leading, I made quite a few mistakes, but when I was behind, I actually felt a bit more relaxed,” he added.

Defending champion China overcame a strong challenge from France to secure a 3-1 victory and reclaim the Thomas Cup title on Sunday.

It marked the 12th time China has lifted the trophy since 1982, while France achieved its best-ever result in the tournament. pic.twitter.com/E5BPtvzDrT

— Sports China (@PDChinaSports) May 4, 2026

He Jiting and Ren Xiangyu clinched the title for China with a 21-13, 21-16 doubles win over Eloi Adam and Leo Rossi, sealing the decisive point.