Women’s Singles: Battles and Breakthroughs
He Zhuojia pushed Hina Hayata to the limit in a thrilling five-game encounter but narrowly fell 2-3 in a match defined by razor-thin margins. Meanwhile, Shi Xunyao delivered a clinical 3-0 victory over USA’s Zhang An to book her place in the Round of 16 with authority.
Men’s Singles: Rising Momentum
Chen Yuanyu showcased composure and control in his 3-1 win over Poland’s Redzimski, advancing confidently into the last 16. Xiang Peng dominated his all-Chinese clash against Huang Youzheng, sealing a straight-games victory and underlining his strong form.
Major Upset in Women’s Doubles
The biggest headline came in women’s doubles, where Kuai Man/Chen Yi stunned the top-seeded Korean pair Kim Nayeong/Ryu Hanna with a 3-1 triumph. Their poise in crucial moments, particularly in the tight closing games, proved decisive.
Women’s Doubles Semifinal Lineup
- Kuai Man/Chen Yi vs Hina Hayata/Miwa Harimoto
- Shin Yubin/Miyuu Nagasaki vs Adina Diaconu/Maria Xiao
In another dramatic result, Maria Xiao and Adina Diaconu defeated second seeds Satsuki Odo/Joo Cheonhui in five games, confirming the elimination of the tournament’s top two seeded pairs. “Honestly, I didn’t expect this result,” Xiao admitted post-match. “I’m incredibly happy with how we played and very proud of Adina.”
Sensational Comeback in Men’s Singles
France’s Thibault Poret produced one of the tournament’s most electrifying moments, overturning a 0-2 deficit to defeat Germany’s 10th seed Dang Qiu 3-2 and reach the Round of 16.
Despite Qiu’s strong history in Singapore — having reached at least the quarterfinals in previous editions — Poret’s resilience turned the tide. After dropping two tight opening games, the Frenchman surged back with relentless aggression and composure. In the decider, he seized momentum from 7-8 down, reeling off four consecutive points to seal a memorable victory.
With a red-hot start to 2026 — including a men’s singles final appearance in Chennai and a men’s doubles title — Poret continues to demonstrate that he belongs among the sport’s rising elite.
As Singapore Smash 2026 progresses, the drama intensifies. The stage is set for even more unforgettable clashes ahead.
