Badminton is evolving fast — each season brings new talent that shakes up the rankings and injects fresh energy into the sport. As we move into 2026, several young and emerging players stand out as the next generation of stars. These athletes bring youthful athleticism skill and hunger that make them exciting to watch. Here are some of the most promising rising stars in world badminton who could make major impacts in 2026.
What Makes a “Rising Star” in Badminton
A rising star blends talent with results. Typically they:
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recently transitioned from junior to senior level with strong performances
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post surprising upsets or run deep into tournaments against experienced players
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display consistent improvement in ranking or skills
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show versatility — singles or doubles or both
In recent years, major tournaments such as BWF World Junior Championships have often acted as launching pads for future top-tier players. BWF Badminton+2BWF Badminton+2
With that in mind, the following players deserve attention heading into 2026.
Players to Watch in 2026
Tanvi Sharma (India) — Young Sensation in Women’s Singles
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Tanvi Sharma recently made headlines at the junior and senior levels. She featured among top emerging players at the 2025 junior championships and transitioned impressively to senior tournaments. The Bridge+1
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At just 16 she already demonstrates composure and talent beyond her years which signal a bright future. Female In Sports+1
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In 2026 expect her to challenge established names and possibly break into higher world rankings if she keeps improving steadily.
Unnati Hooda (India) — Rising Force in Women’s Singles
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Unnati Hooda has emerged quickly from junior circuits into senior-level competitions. The Bridge+1
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Her performance trajectory suggests strong potential — combining agility youthful energy and readiness to challenge experienced opponents. Female In Sports+1
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For 2026 she is a standout candidate to climb rankings and possibly reach quarterfinals or beyond in major tournaments.
Kokona Ishikawa (Japan) — Doubles Star in the Making
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Kokona Ishikawa is emerging as a formidable doubles player, having already secured a World Tour Super 100 title in 2025. Wikipedia
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Her rise in women’s doubles demonstrates that the future of doubles badminton will not just belong to veterans — young players like her are ready to compete at high level. Wikipedia
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If she continues growing, 2026 may see her and her partner become regular threats in major doubles tournaments.
Kakeru Kumagai (Japan) — Young Doubles Threat
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Kakeru Kumagai made headlines by winning his first BWF World Tour title in 2025. Wikipedia
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As a doubles specialist, he represents the wave of young athletes taking doubles more seriously and injecting speed and new strategies into this game format. Wikipedia+1
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2026 could well be the year he cements a regular spot among top doubles pairs, especially if he pairs with a strong partner and maintains form.
Aidil Sholeh (Malaysia) — Steady Climb in Men’s Singles
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Aidil Sholeh, though less highlighted compared to Asian giants, has shown growth — reaching a career high ranking (No. 39) as of late 2025. Wikipedia
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As badminton diversifies globally, players like Aidil prove that talent can emerge outside traditional powerhouses — and Asian neighbors remain competitive. Wikipedia+1
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With discipline and consistent performance, 2026 could be a breakout year for him — possibly earning deeper runs in international tournaments.
What to Expect in 2026: Trends & What Rising Stars Bring
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Youthful energy and aggressive styles: Newer players tend to bring faster footwork aggressive shot selection and fearlessness — making matches more dynamic.
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Doubles gaining fresh life: With rising doubles specialists like Kokona Ishikawa and Kakeru Kumagai — expect doubles events to become more unpredictable and competitive.
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Global spread of talent: Talents are emerging from across Asia and beyond. It’s no longer confined to traditional badminton nations — this increases competition depth worldwide.
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Blend of youth and experience: As veterans remain competitive, rising stars will challenge them — leading to a healthy transition and evolution of the sport.
Why Fans Should Follow These Rising Stars
Watching rising stars early gives you front-row seats to their journey As they grow you’ll witness highs and lows which makes fan experience richer. Their success stories often inspire future generations especially from countries with less badminton exposure. For fans in South Asia like Pakistan, these players highlight what perseverance and training can achieve — motivating local clubs and youth to aim higher.
