BWF China Masters: Men’s Singles Winners (2005–2024)
The BWF China Masters is one of Asia’s most prestigious badminton tournaments, showcasing the very best talents the sport has to offer. Since its inception in 2005, it has become a proving ground for legends and a launchpad for rising stars. Over the years, the tournament has seen epic battles, iconic rivalries, and the crowning of champions who defined entire eras.
With a prize pool now standing at $1,000,000 and valuable ranking points at stake, the China Masters attracts the biggest names in badminton. From China’s early dominance with Lin Dan and Chen Long, to Japan’s resurgence through Kento Momota and Kodai Naraoka, the event has shaped the sport’s global narrative.
Held annually (except during the pandemic years 2020–2022), the competition has evolved from its origins as the Fuzhou China Open to its current status as a Super 750 event on the BWF World Tour. The stage in Shenzhen has become synonymous with history-making performances and unforgettable moments.
In this article, we take a closer look at the men’s singles champions from 2005 to 2024 — each year, each winner, and the story behind their triumph.
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2005 – Lin Dan
The inaugural China Masters in 2005 set the stage for one of badminton’s most dominant eras, with Lin Dan emerging as the first-ever champion. Already known as “Super Dan,” Lin showcased his trademark speed, power, and tactical awareness. His victory on home soil symbolized China’s growing dominance in international badminton at the time. Winning here gave him a confidence boost ahead of major events and reinforced his position as the world number one. The tournament also marked the beginning of the China Masters’ reputation as a stage for champions. For Lin Dan personally, it was another jewel in his early crown, confirming that he was destined for greatness.
2006 – Chen Jin
A year later, Chen Jin rose to prominence by capturing the men’s singles title. At the time, he was still seen as the “next big star” of Chinese badminton, living in the shadow of Lin Dan. His victory at the China Masters was pivotal in cementing his status as a reliable performer for China. Chen Jin’s balanced mix of consistency and stamina proved too strong for his rivals. The triumph earned him valuable ranking points and helped him become a core part of China’s team events. It also showcased the depth of Chinese talent, as fans witnessed another homegrown player lifting the trophy.
2007 – Lin Dan
Lin Dan reclaimed the title in 2007, reaffirming his dominance. By this point, he had already become the face of badminton worldwide. His performances in Shenzhen underlined why he was feared by opponents everywhere. With his aggressive attacking play and unmatched anticipation, he breezed through the draw. The win was part of a larger streak of victories that would ultimately make him one of the sport’s greatest legends. The prize money and ranking points strengthened his number one status. Fans began to see the China Masters as Lin Dan’s personal playground.
2008 – Sony Dwi Kuncoro
In 2008, Indonesian star Sony Dwi Kuncoro broke China’s winning streak by capturing the title. Known for his fighting spirit and ability to produce upsets, Sony’s triumph was a breath of fresh air. His run to the title was marked by resilience and tactical play against top Chinese shuttlers. This victory was one of the biggest highlights of his career. It reminded the world that Indonesia remained a force in men’s singles despite China’s dominance. The title also provided Sony with much-needed confidence on the world stage.
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2009 – Lin Dan
Lin Dan bounced back in 2009 to reclaim the throne. By then, he was already an Olympic champion and widely considered the best of his generation. Winning the China Masters again further established his aura of invincibility. His ability to raise his level in big matches was unmatched. The victory highlighted his consistency and staying power against both local and international challengers. It was another step in his journey toward becoming the undisputed “GOAT” of badminton.
2010 – Lin Dan
The 2010 edition once again belonged to Lin Dan, who was in peak physical and mental condition. This period of his career saw him dominate nearly every event he entered. His victory in Shenzhen was clinical, with few players able to match his pace and shot variety. Each win added weight to his legendary status, making him nearly untouchable. For fans, it became clear that Lin Dan was rewriting history with each passing season. His success inspired a new generation of Chinese shuttlers who idolized him.
2011 – Chen Long
In 2011, Chen Long announced himself as the next superstar by winning his first China Masters. Seen as Lin Dan’s heir, Chen Long played with maturity beyond his years. His steady, defensive style frustrated opponents and proved effective throughout the tournament. This victory was his breakthrough moment and a signal of the changing guard in Chinese badminton. Chen Long’s rise brought balance to China’s squad as Lin Dan began to enter the later stages of his career. The win gave him the confidence to aim for bigger titles.
2012 – Chen Long
Chen Long successfully defended his title in 2012, proving that his breakthrough was no fluke. His calmness under pressure and ability to dictate rallies made him a dominant force. With back-to-back wins, Chen Long became a true contender for the world’s top spot. His consistency reinforced China’s monopoly over the China Masters. Fans and analysts began comparing him with Lin Dan, though Chen’s style was more patient and tactical. The title was a stepping stone toward his eventual Olympic success.
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2013 – Wang Zhengming
The 2013 tournament crowned Wang Zhengming, another product of China’s incredible badminton system. Unlike Lin Dan or Chen Long, Wang was less decorated but equally determined. His victory was a surprise, showcasing the unpredictability of the sport. For Wang, this was the pinnacle of his career, as he struggled to replicate this success at other events. Nevertheless, it demonstrated the depth of talent within the Chinese squad. His title win gave fans a refreshing change from the established names.
2014 – Lin Dan
Lin Dan returned once more in 2014 to win yet another China Masters. Even in the later stages of his career, his class and brilliance shone through. The victory came at a time when questions about his longevity were being raised. Lin Dan silenced critics with commanding performances throughout the tournament. His ability to adapt his game as he aged kept him at the top. For many fans, this title was symbolic of Lin Dan’s enduring greatness. It added to his unmatched record at the China Masters.
2015 – Wang Zhengming
Wang Zhengming captured the title again in 2015, marking his second triumph at the tournament. By now, he was considered a reliable competitor within China’s ranks. His style was less flamboyant but based on discipline and fitness. The victory solidified his place in the nation’s badminton history, even if he never reached the global heights of Lin Dan or Chen Long. For Wang, it was a proud moment to etch his name twice in the winners’ list. His career would be remembered largely for these achievements.
2016 – Lin Dan
Lin Dan was back in 2016, securing yet another China Masters crown. This win added to his unparalleled dominance at the tournament. Even as younger players rose through the ranks, Lin Dan proved he was still a formidable force. His victory thrilled home fans and added yet another chapter to his storied career. For international opponents, it was another reminder that Lin Dan was far from finished. The win also boosted his ranking and helped him prepare for his final Olympic appearance.
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2017 – Tian Houwei
Tian Houwei made headlines in 2017 by clinching the title. Often overshadowed by bigger names, Tian seized his moment at the China Masters. His consistent play and mental toughness carried him through the competition. The victory was one of the highlights of his career, cementing his status as a solid performer. For China, it meant yet another champion from their seemingly endless conveyor belt of talent. Tian’s win proved that opportunities exist for players outside the spotlight to shine.
2018 – Kento Momota
Japan’s Kento Momota broke China’s dominance in 2018 with a stunning victory. Returning to the circuit after suspension, Momota was on a mission to prove himself again. His precise shot-making and tactical control stood out throughout the event. The win was symbolic, as it marked the start of his rise to world number one. For Japan, it was a proud moment to see their star dethrone China at home. Momota’s triumph reshaped the global badminton landscape, proving China could be beaten in Shenzhen.
2019 – Kento Momota
Momota returned in 2019 to defend his crown. By then, he was firmly established as the world’s best men’s singles player. His ability to control rallies and frustrate opponents with patience was unmatched. The back-to-back titles confirmed his dominance in world badminton. For China, it was a rare moment of watching their tournament slip into foreign hands. Momota’s win also came with crucial ranking points and prize money, keeping him ahead of rivals. It was one of the crowning achievements of his golden era.
2023 – Kodai Naraoka
After the Covid-19 pandemic halted the event for several years, Kodai Naraoka returned Japan to the winners’ circle in 2023. Known for his defensive resilience and endless stamina, Naraoka ground down opponents throughout the week. His victory was a breakthrough, marking his arrival among badminton’s elite. For Japan, it meant back-to-back champions from their rising generation. Naraoka’s win boosted his confidence and catapulted him higher in the world rankings. It was proof that the new era of badminton was no longer dominated solely by China.
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2024 – Anders Antonsen
Denmark’s Anders Antonsen made history in 2024 by becoming the first European to win the China Masters men’s singles title. His charismatic personality and attacking flair won over fans in Shenzhen. Antonsen’s triumph was a statement that Europe could still challenge Asia in badminton’s biggest tournaments. The victory added significant ranking points and prize money, elevating him further in the standings. It also marked a turning point, showing the global spread of badminton excellence. For Antonsen, it was one of the defining moments of his career.
