Text by BWF
Maximiliano Avila Sosa is approaching BAHRAIN BWF Para Badminton World Championships 2026 with confidence built through experience, medals and a growing belief he belongs.
The Mexican shuttler made his World Championships debut at Pattaya 2024, where he won two of his three group matches to reach the men’s singles Round of 16, before bowing out to Nigeria’s Chigozie Jeremiah Nnanna.
Though brief, the run left a lasting impression on the 23-year-old from Guadalajara.
“I’m in a very confident stage,” Avila Sosa said when reflecting on his preparation. “We have reviewed the process, made adjustments and I believe we can have a good result at the World Championships.”
That confidence is backed by results. Three months ago, Avila Sosa stood atop the podium at the Pan Am Para Badminton Championships, winning the SL3-SL4 men’s doubles gold alongside Canada’s William Roussy, while also securing men’s singles silver –performances that underlined his steady rise on the international circuit.
His journey into para badminton began at the age of 14, following years of participation in various sports, a foundation that continues to shape both his physical readiness and competitive mindset.
For Avila Sosa, the World Championships represent more than a tournament; they are a measure of progress.
“Para badminton changed my mind and discipline. Everything I’ve built, I owe to this sport,” he said.
Over the coming week in Manama, Avila Sosa will look to turn belief into breakthrough, carrying momentum, maturity and unfinished business onto the world stage.
Any progress achieved in Bahrain will serve as a launchpad toward his ultimate ambition – qualification for the LA28 Paralympic Games.
The BAHRAIN BWF Para Badminton World Championships 2026, the first to be held in the Middle East, starts on Sunday, 8 February.
