Ranithma Liyanage crowned all England junior champion

By Susil Premalal

Sri Lanka’s rising badminton star Ranithma Liyanage delivered a flawless performance to win the Women’s Singles Under-19 title at the prestigious Yonex All England Junior Badminton Championships 2025, held at the University of Birmingham on Sunday. 

Seeded second and backed by McLarens Holdings, the 18-year-old national champion proved her mettle by storming through the tournament without dropping a single game.

In the final, Ranithma showcased her dominance on the international stage by defeating England’s Aahna Bhatia, ranked 1209 in the world, in straight sets, 21-11, 21-7. Ranked 109 globally, Ranithma’s strategic play, sharp footwork and court awareness were on full display as she outclassed her opponent in under half an hour.

Ranithma’s campaign began with a bye in the first round. She then defeated England’s Greta Choi 21-9, 21-12, before overpowering Portugal’s Mafalda Avelino 21-15, 21-12 in the third round. Her quarter-final match saw her cruise past England’s Rajvi Parab 21-7, 21-12. In the semi-final, she dismantled Ireland’s Michelle Shochan (WR 759) 21-15, 21-10 in just 31 minutes, displaying the same intensity and consistency that defined her entire tournament run.

With 57 competitors from around the world vying for the title, Ranithma’s triumph marks a significant career milestone. Her composed and commanding performance not only earned her international praise but also confirmed her position as Sri Lanka’s most promising female badminton talent.

The victory was made possible by McLarens Holdings, whose full sponsorship ensured Ranithma had the resources and support to compete on such a prestigious global platform.