Text by BWF
Beiwen Zhang put to bed retirement talk after starting her year with a hard-fought first round win at PETRONAS Malaysia Open 2025, signalling her badminton career is far from over.
The American considered hanging her racket after the Paris 2024 Olympics, where she was knocked out in the Round of 16 by Carolina Marin.
“I don’t want to retire just yet,” confirmed the world No.15 at the end of the 48-minute 21-14 20-22 21-14 victory over fellow veteran Nozomi Okuhara.
“I still want to play some small tournaments, maintain my ranking and help bring up the junior players (in USA). I couldn’t just walk away, it would have been really difficult for me.”
Asked how long more she plans to hang around the circuit, Beiwen replied: “At least for this year. The schedule is pretty packed right now, but it’s something the Top Committed Players must adapt to.”
Post-Paris, Beiwen only appeared at two tournaments – the Japan Open in August and China Masters in November. The Malaysia Open marks her return to competition after exiting in Shenzen in the first round.
“I felt like a turtle, I was so slow,” laughed the 34-year-old. “It’s been a while since I played a tournament (but) I’m feeling good. There’s no pressure, I’m just playing to enjoy myself.”
As for her goals for the year, Beiwen is clear: “Stay injury-free and enjoy my last moments on the court.”
