NEWS

It was a year like no other at the YONEX All England Championships.

On court there was huge drama, a few upsets, some incredible badminton and ultimately five memorable champions who wrote their name into the All England history books.

Off court, this was a milestone year for badminton’s oldest and most storied tournament.

2023 marked the 40th year that the event was supported by title sponsor Yonex, who first sponsored the event in 1984.

Yonex’s support has continued to take the tournament from strength to strength, ensuring it remains a jewel in the crown of the badminton calendar and a title that is desired by all players.

Badminton England, with Yonex support, have committed to ensuring the tournament also has a wider community impact, with the launch of the YONEX All England Legacy Project, encouraging people across all generations from Birmingham and beyond to get involved with the sport.

Alyssa Yoneyama, President of Yonex, said: “Our long-standing relationship, one of the most enduring in sport, dates back to 1984 when the All England was played at the Wembley Arena.

“I would like to offer my sincere gratitude and appreciation to the Badminton World Federation, Badminton England, the staff at the Utilita Arena Birmingham, and above all, the numerous volunteers who have dedicated their valuable time to make these Championships such a success, year after year.

“Aligning with Badminton England, Yonex will continue to support the development of the YONEX All England to retain its prestigious status on the BWF World Tour and ensure the event promotes the joy of badminton to all fans and athletes.”

This year also marked a significant milestone in that it was the 30th edition of the event to be held in Birmingham at the Utilita Arena, supported by Birmingham City Council.

Having previously been held in London, the move to Birmingham has helped the event flourish and thrive since the first edition in the Second City in 1994, cementing its prestigious status as an event but also making a significant impact across the local community.

Councillor Maureen Cornish, Lord Mayor of Birmingham, said: “Birmingham has a long relationship with this sport, and I am proud we are continuing our partnership with Badminton England. It’s a major coup for Birmingham to host the world’s biggest and best badminton tournament annually.

“It’s important to recognise the positive impact that hosting such major sporting events has on Birmingham.

“Through our partnership with Badminton England, we have been able to secure commitments to develop the sport at a grassroots level across our city, so we can improve the lives of our residents and bring on the next generation of talent.”

Both milestones are hugely welcomed by Badminton England, with the 2023 edition of the YONEX All England Championships proving one of the most successful ever. 

President of Badminton England, Diana Troke added: “We celebrate the 40th consecutive year of Yonex’s involvement as headline sponsors of the YONEX All England Championships.

“We are incredibly fortunate to have this support and I can’t thank Yonex enough for all they have done to help elevate the event over the years.

“2023 marked the 30th year of the event being here in Birmingham. Thank you to Birmingham City Council for everything you do to make the event so special.

“What a remarkable partnership; I hope it continues for many more successful years.”