Medal Success and Debut Highlights for Scottish Para Badminton in Egypt
By Sofia Mazzoni
Last week, Andrew Davies, Sofia Mazzoni and Owen Carmichael of the Scottish Para Badminton Squad competed at the 2026 Spiro Spathis Egyptian International.
Andrew Davies showed an outstanding performance, returning from Egypt with three silver medals in the SH6 class across all three disciplines: Men’s Singles, Men’s Doubles (partnered with fellow Scot Owen Carmichael), and Mixed Doubles paired with Egypts Yasmina Eissa.
Andrew produced a series of impressive matches, including a thrilling three-set victory over the Indian top seed. His skill and tactical awareness were evident as he challenged some of para badminton’s leading contenders throughout the week.
Reflecting on the event, Andrew said:
“I had a great week out in Egypt with some solid performances, coming away with three silvers in singles, doubles and mixed, as well as a win against a top-10 ranked opponent in the singles.”
Owen Carmichael made his international debut in Egypt, claiming his first international silver medal in the Men’s Doubles SH6 category alongside Andrew Davies. The pair demonstrated excellent on-court chemistry, establishing a promising new partnership for future competitions.
Owen also competed in the Men’s Singles, showing impressive speed and determination throughout the competition.
Owen commented:
“Egypt was a great week and a brilliant experience for my first international. It gave me the chance to see how I rank against talent from across the world and what I need to work on for my next international.”
Sofia Mazzoni competed in her second international event across the standing disciplines: SL4 Women’s Singles, SL3–SU5 Women’s Doubles, and SL3–SU5 Mixed Doubles.
Sofia delivered a strong singles performance, securing a bronze medal after being outmatched by her doubles partner, Sophie van den Broek of the Netherlands. In the Women’s Doubles, Sofia and Sophie faced experienced opposition and narrowly missed out on a place in the final, losing to a strong Portugal/India pairing in the semi-finals but still securing the bronze.
In the Mixed Doubles, Sofia partnered with India’s Takar Biri, reaching the quarter finals. The pair faced a tough challenge against former world number ones and top seeds, bowing out in a competitive match, 17–21, 17–21.
Sofia said:
“I really enjoyed my time in Egypt, and I definitely feel like I’ve come a long way since my last international. I’ve learned a lot from this tournament, and I’m looking forward to my next international later in the year.”
The performances in Egypt mark a positive step forward for the Scottish Para Badminton Squad as they continue to build momentum on the international stage.