Christo Popov finally claimed a French Open first round win, 21-11 21-19 over Lin Chun-yi, at the Glaz Arena in Rennes on Tuesday, marking a breakthrough moment on home turf.

The victory was Popov’s second over the Chinese Taipei shuttler in as many weeks, having beaten him at Denmark Open last Tuesday. The clash came about through unusual circumstances after top seed Shi Yu Qi’s withdrawal triggered a reshuffle in the draw.

“I only found out last night after the team managers’ meeting I’d be playing him so it was a surprise,” Popov revealed.

The significance of the victory was not lost on the Frenchman, who had endured tough opening-round exits in previous home appearances against higher-ranked opponents. In 2023, he faced 2021 world champion Loh Kean Yew while last year brought a meeting with eventual champion Shi himself.

After securing the opener, Popov found himself in deep trouble in the second game as Lin established a commanding lead.

“He was moving me well at the back court,” Popov explained. “I couldn’t get out of it for 11 points. But at the end there was a gap, I figured I will just play him at the net and try to win.”

Popov will now face Lee Chia Hao in Round 2, neatly avoiding a potential family affair after his brother Toma Junior Popov fell to the Chinese Taipei player 21-16 21-17 later in the day. Another home hope Alex Lanier also suffered defeat, losing to Alwi Farhan 21-15 21-16.

Seidel Opens Up on Grief

Marvin Seidel/Thuc Phuong Nguyen secured a confident victory over Thailand’s Phuwanat Horbanluekit/Benyapa Aimsaard 21-15 21-12 in just 31 minutes.

For Seidel, the win marks a significant milestone in his return to international competition following an immensely difficult period. In August, he and his wife lost their twin children. Daughter Clara died on 5 August and son Jacob the next day, shortly after their birth on 1 August.

Speaking candidly about his loss, Seidel was open about his grief.

“I’m quite happy to talk about it because from what we heard from other people with similar experience, everybody says it’s not getting talked about enough,” he said. “I’m in a position where I can speak out and share our story to raise awareness that this is unfortunately more common than people think.”

Drawing strength from his wife and childhood sweetheart Kahtrin, Seidel believes communication is vital.

“We’ve been together for 16 years. Childhood love, which of course helps because the bond is just strong,” he explained.

His message to other bereaved parents is clear: “Talk to each other, be honest with each other and really try to share the emotions with your partner. Whatever the emotions, sometimes it’s difficult to talk about it but if you don’t, it can become more difficult. Being open is, at least for me, the right way.”

Seidel/Thuc will face Japan’s Hiroki Midorikawa/Natsu Saito in the second round.

→ Results (Day 1)

→ Order of Play (Day 2)

WHAT OTHERS SAID

“It was great to spar with Zheng Si Wei/Huang Ya Qiong at Zheng’s training camp in China. Huang’s defence is one of the best in mixed doubles, she’s solid and strong. It was an incredible experience.” – Estelle Van Leeuwen

“It’s great to be back playing in France, Canadian fans were cheering for me. I have good memories from the World Championships. I only knew late last night so I didn’t have much time to prepare but overall, quite happy with my match.” – Victor Lai on making the main draw after Shi’s withdrawal

“I feel I’m emerging from the shadows of the Chinese Taipei shuttlers above me. I’m hoping to break into the top 20.” – Chi Yu Jen on his goals after defeating Loh Kean Yew 21-16 21-15

“I lost my luggage, it still hasn’t arrived. I’ve been borrowing things from my teammates. They’ve been great. I always keep my rackets with me so I could play with my equipment.” – Gao Fang Jie relying on teammates when she needs them most