Dunn and MacPherson Fly the Flag for Scotland at the YONEX All-England

Scotland will have proud representation on badminton’s biggest stage this week as Alex Dunn and Julie MacPherson compete at the YONEX All-England Open Badminton Championships in Birmingham.

Widely regarded as the sport’s most iconic tournament, the All-England brings together the world’s elite for one of the most prestigious titles on the calendar. With ranking points, prize money and global standing on the line, the margins are fine, and every round presents a world-class test.

Dunn and MacPherson will be the sole Scottish representatives in action after Kirsty Gilmour was unfortunately forced to withdraw from the women’s singles draw. Gilmour had been scheduled to face South Korea’s Ga Eun Kim in the opening round but has not recovered in time from the injury setback she sustained in Germany last week. We wish Kirsty a smooth recovery and hope to see her back competing at the Swiss Open next week.

That leaves the spotlight firmly on Scotland’s leading mixed doubles pairing.

Dunn and MacPherson open their campaign tomorrow against Denmark’s world number 12 duo, Jesper Toft and Amalie Magelund, familiar opponents on the European circuit and a partnership with proven pedigree on the HSBC BWF World Tour.

However, the Scots arrive in Birmingham brimming with belief. Fresh off a statement upset victory over world number five Chinese pair Guo Xin Wa and Chen Fang Hui, Dunn and MacPherson have already demonstrated they can mix it with the very best. That win showcased their aggressive front-court presence, sharp defensive transitions and growing tactical maturity under pressure.

Replicating that level against Toft and Magelund will require precision on serve and return, discipline in the flat exchanges, and the composure to take chances when they arise. But confidence can be a powerful weapon, and momentum is firmly on their side.

Overseeing preparations this week is coach Robert Blair. A former Commonwealth Games medalist, Blair’s experience of performing on major championship stages could prove invaluable as the pair navigate the intensity and occasion of the All-England arena.

With the sport’s global spotlight fixed on Birmingham, Dunn and MacPherson carry not only their own ambitions but the hopes of Scottish badminton. A deep run would mark another significant milestone in their continued rise on the world stage.

Fans can watch the action live on Badminton World Federation TV at https://www.youtube.com/c/bwftv and via BBC iPlayer.

Stay tuned to our website and social media channels for a full roundup at the conclusion of the championships.