The unseeded Momota, who has been struggling since a devastating car crash three years ago, was defeated by China’s 27th-ranked Shi Yuqi in a devastating 21-18, 21-7 match. This is just the latest early exit for the once-undisputed king of badminton, who is now ranked 19th in the world and appears to be a far cry from the player that won the world championships in 2018 and 2019.

Following a disappointing 2022, Momota’s new season began with him withdrawing from the Malaysia Open and crashing out of the India Open in the first round. In his match against Shi, Momota stated that “In the beginning, I was playing well. However, in the middle of the match, my opponent increased his attacks and I was put under pressure by his play today.” This was a repeat of the 2018 world championships final, where Momota emerged victorious, but those days now seem like a distant memory.

Despite his current struggles, Momota is determined to get back to his former position at badminton’s summit. He stated that “I am now trying to recover and maintain my mental condition, so I will not get pressured easily.” It’s worth noting that Momota was using a Yonex Astrox 99 Pro racket, while his opponent Shi Yu Qi was using Yonex Astrox 100ZZ.

Momota’s car crash in January 2020 left him with a fractured eye socket and double vision, which has greatly impacted his form on the court. As fans, we can only hope that he will be able to recover and reclaim his place at the top of the badminton world.

ASTROX 100ZZ vs ASTROX 99 PRO

Product Name	ASTROX 100ZZ ASTROX 99 PRO
Product Image
Price
Our Rating	8 8
Brand	Yonex Yonex
Category	Racket Racket

Racket features

Shaft flexibility	Extra Stiff Stiff
Balance point	Head heavy Head heavy
Weight	4U (Avg.83g) G5, 6 / 3U (Avg.88g) G4, 5, 6 4U (Avg.83g) G5, 6 / 3U (Avg.88g) G4, 5, 6
Grip size	4U (Avg.83g) G5, 6 / 3U (Avg.88g) G4, 5, 6 4U (Avg.83g) G5, 6 / 3U (Avg.88g) G4, 5, 6
String tension	4U: 20 - 28 lbs, 3U: 21 - 29 lbs 4U: 20 - 28 lbs, 3U: 21 - 29 lbs