As the 2025 BWF World Championships approaches its crescendo in Paris, all eyes are fixed on Thailand’s golden boy, Kunlavut Vitidsarn. With his graceful footwork, clinical precision, and a steely composure that belies his age, Kunlavut has surged through the tournament, silencing doubters and toppling giants. Now, he stands on the cusp of history — just one match away from lifting the most prestigious crown in badminton for the second time.
If he succeeds, Kunlavut will not only reaffirm his place among the sport’s rising legends but also join the rarefied ranks of multiple-time world champions, an elite club that includes the likes of Lin Dan, Chen Long, and Kento Momota. For Thailand, a nation that has steadily risen in the badminton hierarchy, it could be a defining moment — one that reshapes the narrative from being perennial challengers to proven conquerors.
A Prodigy’s Rise From Youth Star to Global Threat
Born in Chonburi, Thailand, in 2001, Kunlavut Vitidsarn was earmarked for greatness from an early age. His early years were filled with accolades, but it was his three consecutive World Junior Championship titles (2017–2019) that truly announced his arrival. No other male player in badminton history had achieved that feat — not even the greats.
His transition to the senior level, though met with the expected challenges, was steady. Unlike some juniors who faded under the pressure of elevated expectations, Kunlavut approached the senior circuit with maturity, discipline, and quiet confidence.
By 2022, he was already defeating top-10 players. In 2023, he secured his first BWF World Tour title. And in 2024, he broke through emphatically, capturing the World Championships title in Copenhagen, becoming the first Thai men’s singles shuttler to do so. That historic victory not only brought pride to Thailand but also signaled a shift in badminton’s balance of power.
2025 A Mission of Legacy Not Just Victory
Coming into the 2025 edition of the World Championships, Kunlavut was already among the top contenders. But his path wasn’t without hurdles. Drawn in a tough half alongside defending Olympic champion Viktor Axelsen, Indonesian powerhouse Anthony Ginting, and the ever-dangerous Loh Kean Yew of Singapore, many believed the Thai sensation would struggle to repeat his previous year’s feat.
Instead, Kunlavut has done more than just survive — he has thrived.
- Round of 32: Dismantled rising Korean Lee Yun-kyu in straight games.
- Round of 16: Outlasted Ginting in a grueling three-set thriller that lasted 83 minutes.
- Quarterfinals: Defeated All England champion Shi Yuqi with tactical brilliance and patient rallies.
- Semifinals: Outplayed Denmark’s Anders Antonsen, dictating tempo and exploiting gaps with surgical accuracy.
Each match has showcased Kunlavut’s evolution. No longer just the crafty youngster with deceptive wristwork, he now embodies the complete package — explosive power, defensive agility, sharp anticipation, and an unshakable mental game.
The Final Showdown One Match for the Ages
Standing between Kunlavut and immortality is Japan’s Kodai Naraoka, a familiar rival who has also enjoyed a meteoric rise in the last two seasons. Their head-to-head history is closely contested, with both players sharing victories in major tournaments.
Naraoka, known for his relentless energy and deep court coverage, presents a different kind of challenge. Unlike hard-hitters or smash-heavy opponents, Naraoka thrives in long exchanges — a style that requires Kunlavut to stay sharp in every rally and avoid being drawn into stamina-sapping duels.
This final is not just about technical execution — it’s a battle of wills, composure, and who can handle the pressure of the moment better.
For Kunlavut, victory would mean:
- A second World Championship title.
- Becoming the first Thai player — male or female — to win multiple world singles titles.
- Joining an exclusive list that includes Lin Dan (5), Chen Long (2), and Kento Momota (2).
- Cementing his legacy as Southeast Asia’s greatest male singles player.
Thailand’s Hopes A Nation Watches in Anticipation
Kunlavut’s run has reignited badminton fever in Thailand. Already a popular sport in the country, especially among women thanks to the success of Ratchanok Intanon and Busanan Ongbamrungphan, the emergence of Kunlavut has galvanized a new generation of fans.
National media coverage has gone into overdrive. Local schools and badminton academies have paused sessions to screen his matches. Social media platforms are flooded with messages of support, memes, and chants of “Kun-Kun-Kunlavut!”
The Thai Badminton Association, led by President Khunying Patama Leeswadtrakul, has been effusive in its praise.
“Kunlavut is not just a player; he is an inspiration. His journey represents everything we hope for in our sports system — discipline, resilience, and excellence.”
A second world title, especially back-to-back, would elevate badminton’s profile in Thailand to new heights and attract greater investment in grassroots development.
The Mental Edge What Separates Kunlavut from the Rest
In elite sport, talent alone doesn’t win championships. What separates the champions from the challengers is often the mental strength — the ability to remain composed under pressure, adapt mid-match, and close out games when fatigue and nerves set in.
This is where Kunlavut shines.
Sports psychologists who have worked with the Thai team describe him as “unusually focused,” “deeply analytical,” and “stoic under stress.” He spends hours studying his opponents’ patterns, identifying not just their strengths but their emotional triggers — the points in a match where they lose rhythm or confidence.
It’s this chess-player mindset, combined with his physical gifts, that makes Kunlavut a nightmare opponent.
His former junior coach, Coach Thanachai, described it best:
“He doesn’t just play the shuttle — he plays the player.”
Tactical Breakdown How Kunlavut Could Win the Final
Against Naraoka, Kunlavut’s key weapons will be:
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Deceptive Drops and Net Play
Naraoka likes to rally from the baseline. By pulling him forward with sharp, disguised net shots, Kunlavut can disrupt his rhythm and create attacking opportunities.
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Controlled Aggression
Kunlavut must avoid overcommitting early in rallies. Instead, building the point patiently and attacking when gaps appear will be more effective.
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Fitness and Recovery
Having had slightly shorter matches than Naraoka, Kunlavut may have fresher legs. Strategic pacing will be crucial in capitalizing on any fatigue.
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Psychological Prowess
Momentum swings are inevitable in finals. The player who manages nerves better, especially during game points and long rallies, will have the edge.
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