Indonesian men's singles star Alwi Farhan learned a valuable lesson from his struggle against cramps, fatigue, and self-doubt after being defeated by host Kodai Naraoka in the quarterfinals of the 2026 BWF World Tour Super 750 Japan Open.
Alwi put up a three-game fight before succumbing 18-21, 22-20, 18-21 in the match in Tokyo, Japan, on Friday.
"I remain grateful that today I was able to fight my best until the end. I certainly didn't let my opponent win easily, and I refused to give up even though I lost," Alwi said in an official PBSI statement after the match.
Alwi had to play catch-up after losing the first game 18-21. He then held on in a tight duel in the second game and forced a decider with a 22-20 victory.
The match was tight again in the third game. However, Alwi began to experience thigh cramps while trying to keep up with Kodai, who was fully supported by the home crowd.
