A Decade On: The Legends’ Vision Returns to China to Spark New Growth in Badminton

As part of The Legends’ Vision 10th Anniversary celebrations, the World Tour returned to China - where it all began - for a landmark event in Yinchuan, Ningxia on May 10–11, 2025. A decade since the first Chinese World Tour event introduced the Legacy Tournament concept, this milestone was both a celebration of progress and a bold step into the sport’s future.

Honoring a Decade of Legacy

Since launching in China, the Legacy Tournament initiative has engaged over 100,000 participants, creating community-driven opportunities to play, compete, and connect. As the program matures, so does its mission—to ensure the sport evolves with its players.

Lin Dan (CHN) shared:

“Even in a country where badminton is already deeply loved, we have a responsibility to keep moving forward. Legacy isn’t just about what we’ve built - it’s about what we’re building next.”

Evolving the Game: Introducing 3v3 Badminton

A major announcement from the weekend was the introduction of 3v3, a new playing format designed to reduce the physical toll of traditional singles and doubles while offering a fresh, inclusive way to compete. The format will now be included in the Legacy Tour China series from 2025, with over 26,000 players expected to participate across regional tournaments.

Lin Dan commented:

“3v3 is a step forward for the Legacy Tour China. It keeps people playing longer, encourages new tactics, and welcomes those who might have stepped away due to injury or age. That’s progress.”

Giving Back: Launching ‘Shuttle Forward’

On May 11, the Legends launched Shuttle Forward, an equipment donation initiative that uses Legacy Tour China participation figures to drive donations to schools and communities. The first stop: Yinchuan Yuehai Primary School, where students received brand-new equipment and the unforgettable opportunity to rally with the Legends.

Lin Dan said:

“Badminton has given us so much - it’s time we give back. Shuttle Forward is about turning participation into purpose. When more people play, more young lives are changed.”

An Exhibition Match to Remember

On Saturday, May 10, fans packed the Ningxia Gymnasium for an electrifying exhibition match featuring Lin Dan, Lee Yong Dae, Peter Gade, Taufik Hidayat, and Carolina Marin, alongside Chinese stars. Blending competitive play and lighthearted challenges, the event showcased the joy, skill, and camaraderie at the heart of the Legends’ Vision.

Looking Ahead: The Legacy Continues

The Legends’ Vision 10th Anniversary continues with Legacy Tour events in India and Spain, reinforcing growth in key regions with rising talent and expanding communities. As the year unfolds, a special documentary will capture the stories, moments, and milestones of this unforgettable decade - and the bold steps being taken toward the next one.

Peter Gade (DEN) commented:

“China is a mature badminton market, but that makes it even more important to think about how we evolve the game. 3v3 brings new energy and keeps people in the sport longer. Shuttle Forward shows how the impact of a single player can ripple across a whole community.”

Website: https://legends.yonex.com/

Social: Instagram @thelegendsvision // Facebook @The Legends Vision

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