Three years of frustration finally gave way to triumph as Chou Tien Chen ended a nine-match losing streak against defending champion Shi Yu Qi, battling to a 21-14 12-21 21-15 victory in the VICTOR China Open 2026 quarterfinals on Friday.

It was the Chinese Taipei veteran’s first win over top seed Shi since the team event at the postponed 2022 Asian Games in September 2023, and one built on an aggressive game plan designed to unsettle the home favourite.

“It’s been about three years since I beat him,” Chou said. “My plan was to put him under pressure because he was playing at home. I tried to attack more, increase the pace and give everything I had.”

Chou sensed Shi was not moving with his usual speed and seized the opportunity, while insisting the world No.1 would return stronger at the upcoming BWF World Championships.

“Usually he’s so fast it’s hard to keep up,” said the 36-year-old. “For me, this wasn’t just about winning one match. I want to compete with everyone, especially the top players of my generation.”

Chou’s reward is an all-Chinese Taipei semifinal against Lin Chun Yi, who defeated Weng Hong Yang 27-25 21-14. The experienced Chou holds a 5-2 advantage over his compatriot.

Meanwhile, Toma Junior Popov became the first French player in 22 years to reach the China Open semifinal after ending Irishman Nhat Nguyen’s valiant run with a come-from-behind 12-21 21-10 21-15 victory. Popov’s big-match temperament showed as he completed the turnaround from being 14-9 down in the decider.

“I’m kind of proud (about the French record) but I’m going step by step. I’m trying to reach the two youngsters in front of me, Christo (Popov) and Alex (Lanier), who are doing an amazing job. I’m trying to keep up but I’m also happy I’m able to end France’s wait for a semifinalist in this competition.”

Popov faces Canadian Victor Lai in the last four. Lai took down Jonatan Christie 21-14 21-17.