An Se-young may skip Korea Open as injury concerns overshadow historic winning streak

Korean badminton fans may miss the chance to see homegrown superstar An Se-young in action in her home country next month, as the world's top-ranked shuttler remained noncommittal about her appearance on Tuesday.

An returned home Tuesday after winning the women's singles title at the French Open over the weekend. It was her 10th international title of the season.

The 24-year-old has also won 50 straight matches and has lost only once in 67 contests so far in 2026.

Despite all the accolades coming her way, An said she barely has time to savor them and reflect on yet another historic year.

"I obviously love winning, and I feel really happy in the moment. But I try to forget about those feelings the very next day," An told reporters at Incheon International Airport. "I constantly have new tournaments coming up, and I really don't have time to enjoy my victories. It is nice to give myself a new goal to accomplish, but I am a little bummed that I don't get to enjoy these feelings to the fullest."

An said she tried to have a little fun after clinching the French Open title, miming putting a crown on her head.

"The season is winding down, and I wanted to pat myself on the back a little bit," An said with a smile.

The grind of a long year has also taken its physical toll on An. She appeared to roll her right ankle during the final of the Denmark Open on Oct. 18 and had her right knee taped during the French Open.

The Korea Open is scheduled to start next Tuesday in Yeosu, Jeonnam-Gwangju. It is the only Badminton World Federation World Tour event held in Korea, and An will tie her record for the most international titles in a season by winning the Korea Open.

An, however, said she will need time to regroup.

"I will take some time off and try to recover. But if I still don't feel great, then I will not force the issue," she said. "I will keep a close eye on how my body feels and decide whether to play or not."

Yonhap