Chinese Taipei’s Chou Tien-Chen battled past Japan’s Riku Takei 21–15, 14–21, 25–23 in the men’s singles Round of 32 at the YONEX Taipei Open 2026 on 29 July 2026. The experienced home favorite overcame a determined challenge in a match that lasted three games, eventually edging a tense decider to advance to the Round of 16 of the BWF Super 300 tournament.
Chou opened the contest with confidence, controlling the rallies through accurate placement and disciplined shot selection. He steadily built an advantage in the opening game before closing it out 21–15, putting himself one game away from victory.
Takei responded impressively in the second game, raising the intensity and taking control of several extended rallies. The Japanese shuttler found his rhythm and prevented Chou from establishing momentum, earning a deserved 21–14 victory to force a deciding game.
The third game produced the most dramatic moments of the match. Both players traded points throughout the decider, with neither able to create a lasting advantage. The contest extended beyond the regulation 21-point mark before Chou held his nerve in the closing exchanges, sealing a thrilling 25–23 victory to complete the match and secure his place in the Round of 16.
Standout Performances
- Chou Tien-Chen (Chinese Taipei): Defeated Riku Takei 21–15, 14–21, 25–23.
- Riku Takei (Japan): Forced a deciding game and pushed the match into extra points.
- Round: Men’s Singles Round of 32.
- Result: Chou Tien-Chen advanced to the Round of 16.
The turning point came in the closing stages of the deciding game. With the score locked beyond 21 points, Chou remained composed under pressure and won the crucial rallies to edge the marathon finish 25–23.
Match Statistics
- Tournament: YONEX Taipei Open 2026 (BWF Super 300)
- Category: Men’s Singles
- Round: Round of 32
- Date: 29 July 2026
- Venue: Taipei Arena, Taipei, Chinese Taipei
- Winner: Chou Tien-Chen (Chinese Taipei)
- Runner-up: Riku Takei (Japan)
- Final Score: 21–15, 14–21, 25–23
- Result: Chou Tien-Chen advanced to the Round of 16.