Victor Lai, at just 20 years old, has etched his name in badminton history as the first Canadian—and indeed the first Pan Am singles player—to win a medal at the BWF World Championships. His bronze in the men’s singles at Paris 2025 marks a milestone not only for Canada but for the entire region.
In a stunning quarterfinal upset, Lai—unseeded and ranked outside the top tier—defeated 2021 world champion Loh Kean Yew of Singapore. Down 17–12 in the first game, he rallied to win 22–20, 21–18, demonstrating remarkable composure and precision. That victory not only secured his spot in the semifinals but also guaranteed him Canada’s—and Pan America’s—first World Championship singles medal.
In the semifinals, Lai put up a valiant fight against the tournament’s top seed, Shi Yu Qi from China, winning the first game 21–13 before losing the next two 22–20 and 21–16. Despite the narrow defeat, his achievement earned him a historic bronze medal.

“Unbelievable. I’m still shocked, I’m really happy and very thankful for all my supporters, coaches, and family.”
His breakthrough 2025 season includes gold at the Pan Am Championships, silver at the Canada Open, and team successes at the Pan Am Cup and Junior Pan Am Games.
“Winning Pan Ams gave me a lot of confidence. I’m proud to show that players from our region can compete with the very best.”
With this bronze medal, Victor Lai has not only broken barriers but also ignited hope. His journey signals the rise of Pan American badminton and inspires a new generation to dream bigger. As Lai himself believes, this is just the beginning.
