When Chou Tien Chen first stepped onto the international circuit in 2007, Sunday’s opponent Toma Junior Popov was just nine years old.

Nineteen years later, the Chinese Taipei veteran showed that experience, resilience and discipline can still outlast youth.

At 36 years and 200 days, Chou became the oldest player to win a Super 1000 title, defeating Popov 21-15 7-21 21-13 to lift the VICTOR China Open 2026 crown. It capped one of the finest weeks of his long career, having also eliminated top-seeded defending champion Shi Yu Qi and All England winner Lin Chun-Yi en route to the title.

The final itself reflected everything that has defined Chou’s career – patience, composure and an ability to find solutions. He recovered from an 11-6 deficit to steal the opening game, weathered Popov’s response in the second, then surged into a seven-point lead in the decider before calmly keeping the Frenchman at arm’s length.

For a player who underwent a colectomy after being diagnosed with early-stage colorectal cancer in 2023, simply competing at the highest level again once seemed uncertain. Winning a first title since last October’s Arctic Open – and his first Super 1000 crown since the 2019 Indonesia Open – made the achievement even more remarkable.

“Unbelievable,” Chou said. “I didn’t think I’d play in the final, let alone become the champion. I really appreciate it. Being on court at this age is not easy, I’m grateful to have this chance.”

He also credited the daily routine that has sustained his longevity.

“Every day is about physio, eating the right nutrition and doing everything to get good results.”

His greatest victory, however, may be over time itself. While records inevitably fall, few careers endure with such consistency and purpose. Chou believes the secret is neither talent nor results.

“You have to keep your mind positive all the time. I can’t decide the result but I can decide my attitude. So I just keep that mindset.”

And there is little time to celebrate. In a few days, Chou returns home as the top seed at the YONEX Taipei Open 2026.

At 36, the oldest Super 1000 champion has made one thing clear: he is not slowing down.

→ Results (Finals)

WHAT OTHERS SAID

“I’d rate myself 10 out of 10 because in both games, I maintained my own rhythm in terms of speed and movement and showed patience. Overall I was very positive and proactive.” – Akane Yamaguchi after beating Chen Yu Fei for her third title this season

“These two weeks have tested us but we’ve given our best to beat the world No.1 pair twice. Hopefully this is a good sign, especially with the World Championships coming soon.” – Fajar Alfian looking ahead after winning a second title in as many weeks with Muhammad Shohibul Fikri