Horsens, Denmark – April 14, 2025 — France’s Alex Lanier made history at the 2025 European Badminton Championships by clinching the men’s singles gold at Forum Horsens, becoming the youngest-ever champion in the event’s prestigious history.
At just 20 years and 77 days old, Lanier shattered the long-standing record held by Danish legend Peter Gade, who won the title in 1998 at 21 years and 132 days.
Watch Alex Lanier’s Post-Match Interview after winning the 2025 European Championships:
A French Final Showdown
In an all-French final, Lanier defeated compatriot Toma Junior Popov in straight games, 21-17, 21-18, showcasing composure beyond his years.
Speaking after his historic win, a visibly emotional Lanier said:
“I’m tired now… and proud. I’m proud of what we’ve done as a team. This didn’t come out of nowhere—I believed I had the tools to win this title, and I pushed through until the very end.”
Popov, who reached both the men’s singles and men’s doubles finals, had a second shot at glory—and he didn’t miss.
Popov Brothers Win Men’s Doubles Title
Toma Junior Popov teamed up with his younger brother Christo Popov to win the men’s doubles crown, defeating fellow French pair Eloi Adam and Leo Rossi with a thrilling 21-12, 18-21, 21-18 victory.
The Popov brothers’ triumph marks a milestone: first time since 1984 a player reached both finals at the same European Championships—and came away with gold.
Line Kjærsfeldt Wins Women’s Singles Title for Denmark
In the women’s singles final, home favorite Line Højmark Kjærsfeldt delighted the Danish crowd by overcoming Kirsty Gilmour of Scotland, 21-16, 21-17, to capture her first European title.
Stoeva Sisters Seal Fourth Women’s Doubles Title
The unstoppable Bulgarian duo Gabriela and Stefani Stoeva returned to the top of the podium after settling for silver in 2024. They stormed through the competition without dropping a single set, defeating Denmark’s Natasja P. Anthonisen and Maiken Fruergaard 21-11, 21-16 in the final.
This victory marks their fourth European Championships title—solidifying their status as one of the most dominant women’s doubles pairs in Europe.
Mixed Doubles Glory for Denmark
The mixed doubles final saw No. 2 seeds Jesper Toft and Amalie Magelund stun top seeds Thom Gicquel and Delphine Delrue of France with a thrilling 21-18, 21-19 win, giving Denmark the mixed title on home soil.
Final Thoughts
Alex Lanier’s rise to the top at just 20 marks a generational shift in European badminton. With strong performances from France, Denmark, and Bulgaria across all categories, the 2025 European Championships has signaled a thrilling new chapter for the sport on the continent.
