Japan’s Women’s Doubles See Changes Ahead of 2025 Sudirman Cup

According to an official announcement from the Nippon Badminton Association (NBA), the Japanese women’s doubles team will undergo key changes ahead of the 2025 Sudirman Cup in Xiamen, China.

Top pair Yuki Fukushima/Mayu Matsumoto, who recently competed at the All England Open 2025, have withdrawn from the tournament due to health concerns.

In their place, the NBA has named Rin Iwanaga/Kie Nakanishi to join the main squad alongside established pair Chiharu Shida/Nami Matsuyama. Women’s doubles specialist Arisa Igarashi has also been included in the lineup for the prestigious mixed team competition.

The 2025 Sudirman Cup is scheduled to take place from April 27 to May 4 in Xiamen — posing a significant test for Japan’s revamped squad on the international stage.