It’s been a week since Bestminton Open 2nd wrapped up, and we wanted to take a moment to reflect.
Why We Do This?
The heart of every session and tournament we host has always been about creating a space where badminton lovers, regardless of skill level can come together, connect, and simply enjoy the game. That’s why we make an effort to invite players from different cultures, backgrounds, and walks of life. We love the diversity it brings to the court.
So far, we’ve welcomed players from nearly 10 countries: Việt Nam
, Indonesia
, Thailand
, Singapore
, Korea
, Sweden
, Turkmenistan
, China
, and Taiwan
Special Guests
This time, we were honored to welcome a few special guests:
• Toni Holm, a former national player for Sweden and now Founder & CEO of Smash Travel, a badminton academy in Bali. Toni brought home gold in both categories he competed in: Men’s Doubles and Mixed Doubles.
• Hendra Joseph, Indonesia’s 2002 Men’s Singles Champion, currently Head Coach at Smash Travel and a certified BWF coach.
To be honest, we were a bit unsure when we first heard they’d be joining.
Let’s face it. There’s a big difference between us and them. For athletes like Toni and Hendra, badminton is their profession. For us, it’s something we play after work, for fun. It felt like we had nothing in common.
But Turns Out, We Do
And yet, we found something we share: the joy of a good rally. The excitement of hearing stories from people who live completely different lives. And the simple happiness of standing on a court with others who love the sport.
Personally, I’ve been in running races before where I stood at the same starting line as elite runners. But running is different. You run your own pace, your own race. It’s inspiring, but badminton isn’t like that. It’s head-to-head. And when you’re facing someone way better than you in a tournament, it’s easy to feel fear, embarrassed or even humiliation.
Finding the Balance
So what’s the solution? We’re not quite sure yet. But maybe there’s a sweet spot between competitiveness and inclusivity.
What we do believe is that athletes like Toni and Hendra have a way of making others feel safe, welcomed, and even inspired, just by being there.
Like that quote from Coach Carter movie:
“Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure… There is nothing enlightened about shrinking so that other people won’t feel insecure around you. We were all meant to shine as children do. It is not just in some of us – it’s in everyone. And as we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same. As we are liberated from our own fear, our presence automatically liberates others.”
Just imagine. A pianist or a nurse getting to rally with a former national athlete. How cool is that? That one moment might become a core memory for someone. And at the end of the day, what really matters is the joy, the laughter, and all the stories shared, especially at the after-party.
That’s what sports are about. Whether it’s badminton, running, or any sport, it’s about connection, growth, and the memories we build together.
Thank you for being part of this journey!
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