Young Indonesian badminton player Moh. Zaki Ubaidillah or Ubed advanced to the last 16 of the Japan Open 2026 after defeating the Danish representative, Rasmus Gemke, in two straight games. This victory was achieved in Ubed's first appearance at the BWF World Tour Super 750 level tournament.
This result marks a positive start for Ubed as he prepares for higher-level competition and demonstrates the development of Indonesia's men's singles regeneration. The Japan Open is one of the tournaments that brings together the world's top players.
Corporate Secretary of PT Bank Negara Indonesia (Persero) Tbk or BNI Okki Rushartomo said that Ubed's achievement shows the importance of consistent and tiered athlete development.
"World-class achievements don't come instantly, but through consistent coaching and strong collaboration. Therefore, BNI continues to support PBSI in developing a generation of high-achieving athletes capable of bringing honor to Indonesia on the international stage," Okki said in a written statement.
According to Okki, the opportunity to compete in Super 750 level tournaments is an important asset for young athletes to gain experience, hone their skills, and build readiness to face players with higher rankings and experience.
"Ubed's journey demonstrates that long-term investment in development can produce the next generation ready to compete at the global level," he said.
BNI has been a strategic partner of the Indonesian Badminton Association (PBSI) in supporting the development of national athletes at various levels. This support is aimed at strengthening the regeneration process and maintaining the sustainability of Indonesian badminton's achievements.
This partnership also forms part of BNI's contribution to human resource development and national sporting achievements. The company believes collaboration between federations, athletes, coaches, the government, and supporting partners is necessary to build a sustainable coaching ecosystem.
For Ubed, victory in the opening match of the 2026 Japan Open isn't the end of the road. The next round will be a further test to gauge his game consistency and ability to compete against the world's best players.
Reaching the top 16 on their debut at the Super 750 level is a positive sign for the regeneration of national badminton. This result also emphasizes the need for continued long-term development to ensure Indonesia has more young athletes ready to compete on the international stage.
*Photo: PBSI Doc.