Indonesian men's singles player Fardhan Rainanda Joe closed his journey at the 2026 Asian Junior Championships with a silver medal after losing to Chinese representative Hong Tian Yue in the final match at the Yatsushiro City General Gymnasium, Japan, on Sunday.
Fardhan lost in straight games, 18-21, 19-21, in a match that was tight from the start. The Indonesian player admitted he lost many points due to unforced errors and was unable to control the pressure at crucial moments.
"In the first game, I made a lot of unforced errors, which gave my opponent too many points. In the second game, I couldn't control myself and hesitated a lot," Fardhan said in an official PBSI statement after the match.
Hong played aggressively with fast-paced play in the forward area. This pattern made it difficult for Fardhan to develop a strategy, especially during crucial phases in both games.
"My opponent played fast up front, and I struggled with their strategy. Going forward, I need to control myself and improve my technique," said Fardhan.
Despite failing to win the title, Fardhan's achievement remains a significant achievement for Indonesia. He had previously been Indonesia's last hope in the singles event, having advanced to the semifinals by defeating eighth-seeded Malaysian Kong Wei Xiang 21-19, 22-20.
Fardhan then secured his place in the final after defeating seventh-seeded Luo Yu Jing from China in three games 21-16, 15-21, 23-21. This result also improved his record from the 2025 edition, when he won a bronze medal in the men's singles event.
Fardhan expressed his gratitude to the team and the Indonesian people who continued to provide support throughout the tournament.
"To the team and the Indonesian people, thank you for your continued support. I'm sorry I couldn't give my best today," said Fardhan.
