2026-05-03,KUALA LUMPUR

Datuk Rashid Sidek has described the opening singles between Shi Yu Qi and Christo Popov as the decisive early battle that could shape the momentum of the China-France Thomas Cup final in Horsens, Denmark, early tomorrow morning.

World No. 1 Yu Qi and Popov, ranked fourth in the world, will likely face each other in the first singles, where the winner will set the momentum for the rest of the tie.

Yu Qi's tournament has been disrupted by acute gastroenteritis during China's 4-1 win against Canada in the group stage.

He featured only once in the group phase, beating Australia's Ephraim Stephen Sam 21-14, 21-10 in their opening tie.

However, Yu Qi has returned in the knockout rounds, looking good with two strong performances.

He defeated Malaysia's Leong Jun Hao 21-10, 16-21, 21-9 in a physically demanding three-game encounter.

Yu Qi then produced a dominant display in the semi-finals, dismantling Denmark's world No. 3 Anders Antonsen 21-16, 21-5 to underline his form heading into the tie.

Popov, meanwhile, remains France's key singles hope despite trailing Yu Qi 4-2 in their head-to-head record, with the Frenchman capable of producing upsets on the biggest stage.

He has already proven he can trouble the Chinese star, having defeated Yi Qi in their most recent meeting at the World Tour Finals in December, winning 21-19, 21-9.

"First singles is very important because it sets the direction of the tie," said Rashid.

"If Yu Qi wins, China's chances become very high because their doubles strength can take over after that. That first point gives them control."

"For France, if they win the opening singles, the whole tie changes.

"It gives them belief and energy because they are relying more on their singles players."

Rashid added that China remain favourites on paper due to their depth and doubles strength.

However, the outcome of the opening singles could determine whether France are able to sustain pressure or be forced into a chasing position from the start.