Kumamoto Masters: Naraoka Faces Shetty Hurdle
Home hopeful Kodai Naraoka will expect a stiff test when he starts his campaign at Kumamoto Masters Japan 2025 against India’s Ayush Shetty.
· BWF STAFF
The world No.10 has had a quiet season, with his last semifinal coming at the Canada Open in July. Shetty, on the other hand, has emerged as an exciting young talent, with his victory at the US Open making him a name to watch.
Other interesting first round match-ups in men’s singles include Lin Chun-Yi against Brian Yang, Korea Masters winner Jason Teh against World Championships bronze medallist Victor Lai and HS Prannoy against Leong Jun Hao.
In women’s singles, local favourite Akane Yamaguchi faces Chinese Taipei’s Chen Su Yu, while her compatriot Nozomi Okuhara takes on former BAOJI China Masters champion Pitchamon Opatniputh.