Events

Markham, ON (December 7, 2025) — The 2025 YONEX Canadian International Challenge concluded today, marking the final international badminton event of the year in North America. From December 2 to 7, the Markham Pan Am Centre came alive with electric energy as athletes from around the world delivered exceptional performances, showcasing high-level badminton and putting on an incredible show for fans throughout the week. See tournament winners here. Canadian National Team members took the Gold in three of five events and Canadians won silver in all events. 

This year’s event saw remarkable engagement from the Canadian badminton community, with strong participation from local players, clubs, and fans. The atmosphere was further elevated by the presence of passionate supporters from abroad, whose enthusiasm and loud, unwavering cheers created an unforgettable environment throughout the week. 

"The 2025 Yonex Canadian International Challenge demonstrated the strength of the sport in Canada. Canadian badminton is alive and strong!” shares Bryan Merrett, Badminton Canada Executive Director, “This year the strong contingent of fans supporting the various countries brought a dramatic and exciting vibe to the event. The enthusiasm and play of Canadian athletes sets the stage of the Yonex Canada Open 2026 in July next year.” 

The Government of Canada, the City of Markham and Destination Markham provided support to deliver the event in the We extend our sincere gratitude to our valued sponsors — Yonex, MNP, Badminton Centre of Excellence, and Mandarin Badminton — whose support was instrumental in bringing this tournament to life and growing the sport in Canada. 

The success of this week would not have been possible without the dedication of our Local Organizing Committee. Every department — from operations and volunteers to media, hospitality, and technical officials — worked tirelessly to ensure a smooth and world-class experience for athletes, officials, and spectators alike. 

“It’s such an amazing event to be a part of and get to see so many volunteers from the badminton community, in Markham and beyond, offer their time, expertise, and effort,” shares Jeff Kosciejew, Chair of the Local Organizing Committee, “These volunteers make this event possible and provide the foundation for the athletes to compete. It’s such a treat to be a part of making it all happen.” 

As we close out the 2025 international season, we thank everyone who contributed to making the YONEX Canadian International Challenge a memorable finale. We look forward to welcoming the world back to Canada for more exciting badminton such as the YONEX Canada Open 2026 in July at the Markham Pan Am Centre. 

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For more information or media inquiries please contact: 

Bryan R. Merrett 

Executive Director 

613-518-1501, X2083 

bmerrett@badminton.ca

 

About Badminton Canada 

With shuttles reaching speeds as high as 565 kph, badminton attracts more than 220 million people worldwide to play the sport weekly, making badminton the second most participated-in sport in the world. Badminton Canada works to grow the game across the country through events, coaching and officials’ development, and developing programs such as Shuttletime. In Canada, over 2 million people picked up a badminton racquet and played our sport. Some play at the cottage, some in the backyard, at school, the local community centre or as part of an organized Badminton Canada competition. Badminton is easily accessible – for any Canadian – at any age – for life!