One sharp twinge in her left foot changed the entire plan. At the Japan Open, An Se-young had cruised past Hina Akechi in dominant fashion. However, recurring pain on the outer side of her foot soon forced a rethink.
An Se-young Recovery Takes Priority Over Ranking Points
Rather than push through, the world No. 1 withdrew before her round of 16 clash. Then she flew home to South Korea for a full medical check.
Fortunately, the tests brought good news. Doctors found no serious damage, only soreness from fatigue and overuse. Still, her team refused to gamble with her long-term health.
Therefore, An also pulled out of the Super 1000 China Open. That call cost her valuable ranking points. Nevertheless, protecting a nagging foot issue clearly mattered more.
Right now, she has stepped away from the spotlight almost entirely. Instead, she stays at the training centre for treatment and rehab drills. Gradually, the An Se-young recovery process is rebuilding her match fitness.
Eyes on the World Championships and Asian Games
Her goals for the season already look crystal clear. Above all, she wants to peak for the upcoming World Championships. Moreover, she is building toward the Asian Games later this year.
Real history drives that focus, too. An lifted the world title back in 2023. However, her 2025 campaign ended in the semi-finals, where Chen Yufei knocked her out. That defeat has fuelled her ever since.
As a result, she would rather sacrifice points now than compete in pain. When fully fit, An blends relentless defence, sharp attack and elite stamina. Once the An Se-young recovery is complete, she should rank among the genuine favourites to reclaim her crown.
