In the world of international badminton, team tournaments often test not only skill but also resilience, unity, and national pride. While the spotlight often shines on the title contenders, stories of determination and perseverance light up every corner of the tournament. One such story emerged in Xiamen, China, where Hong Kong wrapped up their 2025 Sudirman Cup campaign with a resounding 5-0 victory over Algeria.
Despite being mathematically out of contention for the quarter-finals, Hong Kong’s final group-stage performance was a powerful reminder of the spirit of competition. With sharp racquet work, strategic brilliance, and a united team effort, they walked away from the biennial mixed team event with heads held high.
A Match That Was More Than Just a Formality
Group A of the Sudirman Cup had already seen China and Thailand book their places in the quarter-finals by the time Hong Kong stepped onto the court for their final tie against Algeria. Yet, for the athletes of Hong Kong, the match was anything but meaningless.
“There’s still pride to play for,” said team coach Wong Tat Meng before the tie. “This is about proving to ourselves, and to our country, that we finish strong, no matter what the standings say.”
And strong they finished indeed.
Dominant from the Start
The tie began with the mixed doubles match—often a litmus test for overall team strength. Hong Kong’s experienced pair, Reginald Lee Chun Hei and Ng Tsz Yau, faced the Algerian duo of Koceila Mammeri and Tanina Mammeri, siblings known for their chemistry and fighting spirit.
However, the Hong Kong pair quickly asserted control with precise net shots and fast-paced rallies. They sealed the match in straight games, giving Hong Kong the early momentum and a 1-0 lead.
This set the tone for the rest of the tie.
Angus Ng Shows Vintage Form
The men’s singles clash saw Hong Kong’s star, former world No. 1 Angus Ng Ka Long, take to the court against Youcef Sabri Medel. For Ng, this tournament was about more than results—it was about rediscovering form after an inconsistent international season.
From the opening serve, Ng dictated the tempo with his trademark aggressive play and sharp cross-court smashes. Though Medel showed flashes of resistance, Ng’s experience and court control proved overwhelming. He secured a straight-games win, extending Hong Kong’s lead to 2-0 and reigniting hopes for his return to top form.
Saloni Samirbhai Mehta’s Breakthrough Moment
The women’s singles match that followed was a special moment—not just for the team, but for Saloni Samirbhai Mehta herself. The young shuttler has been quietly rising through the ranks and was handed the responsibility of sealing the tie.
Facing Halla Bouksani, a seasoned competitor for Algeria, Mehta played with composure beyond her years. Her deft touches at the net, combined with consistent backcourt play, allowed her to dominate long rallies. She sealed the match and delivered the crucial third point, ensuring Hong Kong’s overall victory.
As teammates celebrated courtside, it was clear that Mehta had earned more than a win—she’d earned her place among the next generation of Hong Kong badminton stars.
Sealing the Sweep with Double Delight
With the tie already won, Hong Kong remained committed to delivering a full sweep.
In the men’s doubles, Chow Hin Long and Lui Chun Wai took on Adel Hamek and Koceila Mammeri. The Hong Kong duo moved fluidly on court, reading each other’s intentions with precision and maintaining pressure with aggressive net play. Despite a spirited effort from the Algerians, the match ended in Hong Kong’s favor, 4-0.
Finally, in the women’s doubles, Yeung Nga Ting and Yeung Pui Lam wrapped things up against Linda Mazri and Tanina Mammeri. Though Algeria put up a late fight, the Yeung pair was too strong, securing the final match in straight games to complete the 5-0 rout.
A Campaign of Mixed Emotions
Hong Kong’s Sudirman Cup campaign may not have led to the knockout stages, but the team departs with valuable lessons and moments of individual brilliance. Drawn into a tough group alongside powerhouse China and a resurgent Thailand, their chances of progression were always going to be an uphill battle.
They opened the tournament with a loss to Thailand, where several rubbers went the distance but ended in narrow defeats. The tie against China, as expected, proved overwhelming, with the defending champions showcasing their unmatched depth and speed. Still, the Hong Kong team refused to be discouraged.
“This team has shown fight in every match,” said coach Wong. “We knew this was a tough draw. But the goal was growth, and we’ve seen plenty of that—especially from our younger players.”
Spotlight on Emerging Talent
One of the biggest takeaways for Hong Kong has been the emergence of fresh talent capable of competing on the international stage.
Saloni Mehta’s composure in the women’s singles drew praise from both her teammates and commentators, who noted her calmness under pressure and mature shot selection.
Similarly, the doubles partnerships—especially the Yeung sisters—have shown great chemistry and tactical awareness, hinting at a bright future for Hong Kong’s doubles disciplines.
And while Angus Ng remains the face of Hong Kong badminton, the tournament offered him a chance to ease back into elite-level competition after a turbulent season plagued by injuries and fluctuating form.
The Bigger Picture Badminton Development in Hong Kong
Beyond the scoreboard, Hong Kong’s campaign reflects the broader narrative of its badminton development.
Over the past decade, Hong Kong has invested in youth academies, international exposure, and coaching upgrades. The result is a broader pool of talent now pushing for international recognition. Although the Sudirman Cup exit is a setback, it also serves as a milestone in this longer journey.
“It’s about building a team for the future,” said Assistant Coach Cheung Kin Man. “We want depth. We want resilience. And most of all, we want to inspire the next generation of players back home.”
Indeed, the Hong Kong Sports Institute has already begun preparing for the next wave of international events, including the Asian Games and the World Championships.
Algeria’s Bright Spots Amid Struggles
For Algeria, the Sudirman Cup has been a challenging outing. Facing some of the strongest teams in the world, their lack of depth and exposure at the highest level was evident. But even in defeat, there were moments that suggested potential.
Koceila Mammeri and Tanina Mammeri, Algeria’s most prominent mixed doubles team, played with chemistry and showed glimpses of the talent that has helped them dominate the African circuit. Their experience will be vital in nurturing younger talent in Algeria’s badminton scene.
Similarly, players like Bouksani and Medel gained valuable experience competing against elite opponents, a stepping stone that could help Algeria rise in future competitions.
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