Chou Tien-chen takes gold in China Open at age 36

Taiwan’s Chou Tien-chen (周天成) became the oldest winner of a Badminton World Federation (BWF) Super 1000 title yesterday after defeating France’s Toma Junior Popov in the China Open men’s singles final.World No. 6 Chou beat world No. 16 Popov in a three-game match 21-15, 7-21, 21-13.Chou entered yesterday’s match with a 1-2 career record in favor of Popov, although the last time the pair faced each other was in March 2024. Chou Tien-chen hits a return during the China Open badminton tournament in Changzhou, China, on Saturday. Photo: AFP While he took the first game, Chou initially trailed behind Popov by six points.After regaining his composure, Chou was able to overtake his French counterpart to win the first game 21-15. Chou was unable to capitalize on his win and failed to ride the mome