Slovenia Open Preview
12th May 2026 by Robert McLean
Scotland’s James Robertson and Matthew Waring are set to begin their campaigns at the I FEEL SLOVENIA LI-NING Open tomorrow, with both players aiming to battle through a demanding qualification draw and secure their places in the main competition in Maribor, Slovenia.
Taking place in one of Slovenia’s most scenic cities, the International Series event has attracted a deep and highly competitive field from across Europe and beyond, offering valuable ranking points and crucial international experience. With strong representation from a number of badminton nations, qualification is expected to be fiercely contested from the opening round.
Leading the Scottish charge is James Robertson, who arrives in Maribor as the top seed in qualifying. Robertson has shown impressive consistency on the international circuit and will be looking to use that experience to his advantage as he opens against home favourite Žiga Podgoršek in the qualifying round of 64.
While Robertson will enter the match as favourite on paper, the challenge of facing a local player in front of home support always adds an extra layer of difficulty. The Scot will need to settle quickly and impose his attacking game early if he is to avoid a potentially tricky opening encounter. Their match is scheduled as the second contest on court 5, with a place in the next round on the line.
Matthew Waring also faces a difficult first-round assignment as he takes on Croatia’s Ivan Kosor. Seeded 14th in qualifying, Waring enters the tournament with confidence growing following a series of encouraging recent performances. The Scottish player has shown strong form in recent weeks, producing composed displays and competing well against experienced international opposition.
Kosor represents a challenging opening opponent, with the Croatian known for his physical style and ability to extend rallies, meaning Waring will need to maintain his discipline and composure throughout the contest. Their qualifying round of 64 clash is scheduled as the fifth match on court 4.
Both Scots know the importance of making a strong start in an event where momentum can quickly build across multiple rounds of qualifying. With main draw places at stake and a packed international field standing in their way, Robertson and Waring will be hoping to produce their best badminton from the very first shuttle.
Beyond the immediate challenge of qualification, the tournament also provides another important opportunity for both players to continue building international experience and gain valuable ranking points as they compete against a wide range of European opposition. Events such as the Slovenia Open remain a key part of player development on the international circuit, with every round offering the chance to test themselves against high-level competition.
Fans can follow all the action live throughout the tournament on Badminton Europe TV: http://www.badmintoneurope.tv/en-int/page/home-badminton-europe
Stay tuned to our website and social channels for updates and a full tournament roundup at the conclusion of the event.