Jason Gunawan Claims Historic Title at China Masters, Leading Hong Kong Badminton

In a remarkable display of talent, Jason Gunawan secured the men’s singles title at the 2026 China Masters held in Shenzhen, China, by defeating his senior teammate Lee Cheuk Yiu with scores of 21-9, 21-16. This victory marks a significant milestone for Hong Kong badminton, as it represents the first time two players from the region faced each other in a final during the HSBC BWF World Tour era.

Entering the tournament ranked world No. 32, Gunawan's performance throughout the event showcased his potential, culminating in his first Super 750 final. His win not only highlights his individual success but also reflects the growing strength of the Hong Kong men’s singles program, which has been bolstered under the guidance of coach Wong Choong Hann.

Gunawan's path to the final was marked by impressive victories, including a notable win against newly crowned world No. 1 Jonatan Christie in the round of 16. He continued to demonstrate his skill by defeating defending champion Weng Hongyang in the quarterfinals and overcoming a tough semifinal match against Anders Antonsen, showcasing his resilience and ability to perform under pressure.

The final match against Lee was significant for both players, as it confirmed a gold-and-silver finish for Hong Kong at the tournament. While Gunawan emerged victorious, Lee’s performance throughout the tournament also solidified his status as a formidable competitor on the international stage. Together, they represent a promising future for Hong Kong badminton, challenging traditional powerhouses in the sport.