Badminton has long been one of Indonesia’s go-to sports for collecting medals. But over the past two years, Indonesia’s performance has often been seen as declining. So in 2025… where are we really at?
Paris 2024 setback
After failing to continue Indonesia’s gold medal tradition at Paris 2024, public disappointment was hard to ignore. Especially since several Indonesian players were right in their prime.
However, the men’s singles and doubles who was the favorites sector came up empty. Indonesia was left with very few options to lean on. Expectations were still high, but the results fell well short.
In the end, Indonesia’s campaign was only salvaged by Gregoria Mariska Tunjung, who secured a bronze medal in women’s singles.
”The underwhelming outcome in Paris 2024 was ultimately seen as a clear sign of a setback for Indonesian badminton.”
Even so, Indonesia also claimed titles at the All England, thanks to Jonatan Christie and Fajar/Rian. Still, the main goal set by PBSI, which an Olympic gold medal could not be achieved.
2025 supposed to be the ‘comeback’
This year, all eyes have been on badminton. It feels a bit unusual, considering Indonesia used to dominate this sport without worry. In reality, the past two years have seen a drop in performance.
PBSI’s Deputy Chairman, Taufik Hidayat, agrees. He admitted the team’s form hasn’t been great, but he reassured everyone that building a strong team isn’t instant, it takes time.
Through 2025, Indonesian badminton hasn’t declined further. The team started the year fresh, won Badminton Mixed Asia Championships 2025, defeated China. This was a huge stepping stone to mark this year a comeback season.
”Furthermore, Jonatan Christie, won three titles almost back-to-back in mid 2025. He claimed the Korea Open 2025, Denmark Open 2025, and Hylo Open 2025.”
Besides that, new pair Fajar/Fikri also won China Open 2025, defeating Malaysian Chia/Soh.
2025 SEA Games success
The Indonesian badminton team totally brought the good vibes at the 2025 SEA Games in Thailand. The original goal was just two golds. But surprisingly, they went all out and brought three gold medals home.
The wins came from men’s team, men’s singles, and men’s doubles. Alwi Farhan crushed it in singles, while the duo Sabar/Reza locked down the men’s doubles. Indonesia was surely not playing around this year!
So, is 2025 a year to forget or a turning point for Indonesian badminton?
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