Krajewski’s Historic Leap

Text by BWF

At long last, USA have a world champion in Para badminton.

It came courtesy of 20-year-old Miles Krajewski, who created history at BAHRAIN BWF Para Badminton World Championships 2026 in Bahrain by defeating Thailand’s Natthapong Meechai 21-19 22-20 to win the SH6 men’s singles title.

The victory capped a remarkable turnaround for Krajewski, who had not topped his group in the early stages of the tournament. In the final, he showed resilience and composure, rallying from behind in both games to close out a tense contest against the in-form Meechai.

“The key was staying in the rally and staying composed,” Krajewski, who won men’s doubles silver alongside Brazilian Vitor Tavares at the previous edition, said. “He’s a great player who’s been winning tournaments so I knew I had to stick to my game and just keep it going.”

Both games followed a similar script. With the score tight and momentum hanging in the balance, Krajewski relied on patience and discipline. At 19-17 down in the opening game, he strung together four crucial points. The second game proved equally dramatic but once again he edged ahead at the decisive moment.

Throughout the match, his coach’s message remained clear: one point at a time.

“It was difficult,” Krajewski admitted of the closing stages. “But I knew I had a great coach behind me and a great team back home cheering me on.”

An emotional Krajewski leapt into his coach’s arms after converting match point, visibly overwhelmed. “I don’t even know. I’m still in shock,” he said.

He credited his full-time training at the Frisco Badminton Academy and support from sponsor Badminton Gold Quest for helping him reach the pinnacle.

“It means a lot,” he said of becoming the first American champion. “US badminton is heading in the right direction. Hopefully many more world champions to come.”