The Dominican International 2026 took place in Santo Domingo from August 19 to 23, bringing together athletes from different countries for another opportunity to compete, earn valuable international experience, and prepare for upcoming challenges. After five days of action, the Dominican Republic claimed two gold medals, while the United States and Argentina added one title each.
Home Success for the Dominican Republic
The Dominican Republic led the Pan American gold-medal haul with two titles. The first came in Mixed Doubles, where Yonathan Linarez and Nairoby Jimenez opened their campaign with a three-game victory over Argentina’s Santiago Otero and Iona Gualdi. After overcoming fellow Dominicans in the quarterfinals and Colombia’s Jeronimo and Juliana Giraldo in the semifinals, Linarez and Jimenez faced Nicolas and Ailen Oliva (ARG) for the title. The home pair prevailed in two closely contested games, both decided 21-19.
Alissa and Daniela Acosta delivered the second gold medal for the host nation in Women’s Doubles, defeating compatriots Clarissa Pie and Nairoby Jimenez in the final. Iona Gualdi/Ailen Oliva (ARG) and Paula Rodas/Sofia Rodas (PAR) completed the podium with bronze medals.
The Dominican Republic’s strong performance was particularly evident in the doubles events, where its athletes also earned silver and both bronze medals in Men’s Doubles. The Men’s Doubles title, however, went to Argentina. Nicolas Oliva and Santiago Otero defeated Dominicans Victor Ovalles and Ernick Zorilla in a competitive final, securing the gold with a 24-22, 21-19 victory.
Jay Chuen Claims the Men’s Singles Title
The United States celebrated gold through Jay Chuen in Men’s Singles, following an impressive run through the draw. After facing opponents from South America, Europe, and his own country, Chuen earned his place in the final against France’s Yohan Barbieri. The US athlete controlled the title match and secured the championship in straight games, 21-15, 21-12.
More Pan American Podiums in Women’s Singles
Colombia’s Juliana Giraldo, the second seed, reached the Women’s Singles final after overcoming players from the Dominican Republic, Argentina, and Portugal. In the final match, she fell to Switzerland’s Stadelmann in straight games to finish with the silver medal. Taymara Oropesa also added a bronze medal for the Pan American region in the event.
The Dominican International provided another international stage for athletes from across the region to compete and continue their development. Badminton Pan Am congratulates all participating athletes and celebrates the performances of our players throughout the competition.
