▲ Badminton World Federation (BWF) women's singles world number one An Se-young poses for a photo during the official commemorative medal unveiling ceremony held at Yonex Korea in Seocho-gu, Seoul, on the 29th.
World badminton powerhouse An Se-young, who experienced a brief setback due to injury, has signaled her return to the court after regrouping.
An shared her current status firsthand as she attended the release event for her first official commemorative medal held today (the 29th).
Meeting with reporters right after the event, An stated, "My physical condition has recovered to about 80 to 90 percent compared to when I had to withdraw due to injury, and I am digesting normal training sessions."
She added, "I am making thorough preparations with the goal of participating in the World Championships to be held next month."
Previously, An withdrew ahead of the Round of 16 match at the 2026 Badminton World Federation (BWF) World Tour Japan Open on the 15th due to a recurrence of pain in her left foot, an issue she has suffered from in the past.
Expressing a firm resolve, An said, "I view this as a time to regroup in order to play longer and more healthily as an athlete," adding, "I will do my best to return."
Meanwhile, the event unveiled the first official medal produced by the Korea Minting and Security Printing Corporation to commemorate her becoming the first Asian player to achieve a women's singles Grand Slam.
The medal captures the dazzling achievements of An Se-young, who wrote new history by winning all major international competitions, including the 2022 Hangzhou Asian Games, the 2024 Paris Olympics, and the 2026 Badminton Asia Championships.
The front of the medal features "Star is Born," a phrase An liked the most during the Olympics, along with her autograph, while the back symbolizes her solid standing as the world number one.
Sharing her thoughts, An said, "It is truly meaningful and honorable to have my first official commemorative medal released," adding, "I am very satisfied as the small medal seems to perfectly capture the meaning of those days."
Produced as a limited edition in two types—500 gold medals and 1,500 silver medals—the medals go on sale starting today through the Korea Minting and Security Printing Corporation online shopping mall.
(Photo: Yonhap News)
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