High-Performance
Canada unveils the members of the 2026 National Teams Program
January 27, 2026
Athletes selected for the YONEX National Senior, Next Gen and Para National Teams
Ottawa, Ontario (January 30, 2026) - Badminton Canada is proud to announce its National Team selections, marking an exciting new chapter for the country’s high-performance program. The National Teams are proudly sponsored by YONEX, a long-term sponsor of badminton in Canada, and supported by the Government of Canada through the Sport for Support Program.
Among those named to the National Team is Victor Lai, Canada’s first ever World Championship bronze medalist and one of Canada’s top men’s singles athletes. As the #15 World ranked player, Lai continues to establish himself as a consistent force on the global stage.
The team is anchored by Michelle Li, a cornerstone of Canadian badminton and one of the most accomplished athletes in program history. As the World #12, Li is pursuing her fifth Olympic appearance, highlighting her remarkable longevity and continued excellence at the highest level of the sport.
The YONEX Para National Team features Canada's leading para athletes, including several veterans like William Roussy (SL3) and Yuka Chokyu (WH1), and new talent such as Rishav Sharma (SU5). Leading the team is Justin Kendrick and Colleen Cloetta ranked as the BWF #2 in SH6-XD.
“This is a historic year for Badminton Canada,” said Mike Luck, High Performance Director, “The depth, experience, and international success represented on this National Team reflects years of sustained investment and focus in high performance. From World Championship Medals to top Para ranked players, our athletes are not only competing globally — they are redefining what is possible for Canadian badminton.”
As the official sponsor of Badminton Canada’s National Teams, YONEX will provide world-class equipment and performance support to athletes throughout the season. The partnership plays a key role in ensuring athletes have access to the tools and resources required to compete at the highest level.
“Our partnership with Badminton Canada is about enabling excellence,” said Antonio Li, Promotions with YONEX Canada, “By supporting the National Teams with industry-leading equipment and innovation, we help athletes focus fully on performance and preparation as they compete on the world stage. Results are stacking, Badminton in Canada is growing."
Through the Support for Sport program, Badminton Canada receives funding to support the High Performance program from the Government of Canada and Sport Canada. The funds support the contribution of technical leadership for the program and attendance at key international events. A small amount of funds will support some player travel to these key international events.
The announcement of the National Teams reinforces Badminton Canada’s commitment to high-performance excellence and the continued growth of badminton across the country. Fans and supporters are encouraged to follow Badminton Canada’s digital channels for competition updates, athlete features, and season highlights.
Check out all the members of the 2026 YONEX National Teams:
Badminton Canada Senior National Team
Badminton Canada Para National Team
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For more information or media inquiries please contact:
Bryan R. Merrett
Executive Director
613-518-1501, X2083
About Badminton Canada
With shuttles reaching speeds as high as 565 kph, badminton attracts more than 220 million people worldwide to play the sport weekly, making badminton the second most participated-in sport in the world. Badminton Canada works to grow the game across the country through events, coaching and officials’ development, and developing programs such as Shuttletime. In Canada, over 2 million people picked up a badminton racquet and played our sport. Some play at the cottage, some in the backyard, at school, the local community centre or as part of an organized Badminton Canada competition. Badminton is easily accessible – for any Canadian – at any age – for life!