Strong Scottish Contingent Hoping for Deep Run at Yonex Belgian International
9th September 2025 by Robert McLean
A determined group of Scottish badminton stars are aiming to make a strong impression this week as they descend on Leuven, Belgium, for the Yonex Belgian International – an important fixture on the Badminton Europe International Challenge circuit.
Scotland has fielded a powerful and diverse squad for the tournament, with representation across all five disciplines. The event presents a valuable opportunity for athletes to gain ranking points, match experience, and test themselves against top European and international opposition.
Men’s Singles
The men’s singles draw features senior squad members Matthew Waring and James Robertson, both eager to put in strong performances in the early rounds of qualification. Joining them is Shaun Ally Aamir, who will be hoping to win through to the main draw.
Waring kicks off his campaign tomorrow as the second match on Court 2, facing Dutch teenager Vihaan Shah in the round of 64 of qualification. Later on the same court, Robertson faces a tough challenge as he takes on third seed in the qualifying rounds Nadeem Dalvi of England—world ranked 174—in a round of 32 qualification clash.
Aamir rounds off the opening day for the Scots in singles with a round of 64 qualifier against Belgium’s Brent Stockman on Court 4.
Women’s Singles
Scotland’s number two, Rachel Sugden, is set to begin her campaign later in the week. Sugden will be aiming to use her experience to navigate a competitive draw and push deep into the tournament.
Men’s Doubles
The established pairing of Christopher and Matthew Grimley, alongside the dynamic duo of Alex Dunn and Adam Pringle, bring both experience and firepower to the men’s doubles event. With their strong chemistry and international experience, both pairs will be looking to go the distance in Belgium.
Women’s Doubles
In the women’s doubles, Ciara Torrance and Julie MacPherson—a proven and consistent pair on the European circuit—are expected to challenge for a podium spot.
Mixed Doubles
Mixed doubles sees two Scottish pairings in action: the new partnership of Adam Pringle and Brooke Stalker, and the more familiar, though not regularly teamed-up, Chris Grimley and Ciara Torrance. Grimley and Torrance begin their campaign as the first match on Court 4 tomorrow, facing England’s Robin Harper and Sian Kelly in a round of 16 qualifier.
Coaching & Support
The squad is accompanied this week by experienced coach Robert Blair, who will be guiding the players through the high-stakes matches across the tournament.
How to Follow
The action gets underway tomorrow, with several Scottish players featuring prominently on the opening day’s schedule. The rest of the team will begin their campaigns on Thursday and Friday.
📺 Watch live on Badminton Europe TV:
https://www.badmintoneurope.tv/en-int/page/home-badminton-europe
📰 Stay tuned to our website and social media channels for updates, match results, and a full tournament roundup at the conclusion of the event.
Let’s go Scotland!