MUSCAT: Hind al Rashdi was crowned champion of the 2026 Omani Women’s Badminton Championship after delivering a technically strong performance in a competitive field at the sub-hall of the Sultan Qaboos Sports Complex in Bausher.
Shaikha al Mahtheori finished runner-up following a spirited campaign, while Hoor al Masrouri took third place and Maram al Bahri came fourth. The closing ceremony was held under the auspices of Khawla al Rawahi, Director of the Women’s Sports Department at the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Youth, in the presence of Ruqaya al Omairi, board member of the Oman Racket Sports Committee.
The tournament attracted 45 Omani players from different governorates and age categories from 15 years and above, reflecting the growing base of girls and women taking up badminton in the Sultanate of Oman. The event formed part of the Oman Badminton Championships and aimed to strengthen women’s participation, identify promising talents and prepare players for future regional and international assignments.
The competition began with a group-stage format before moving into the knockout rounds, giving players valuable match exposure and a stronger competitive platform. The event also stood out for being managed by an Omani women’s officiating team, including chair umpires and line judges.
Khawla al Rawahi said the allocation of a dedicated championship for Omani women was an important step by the Oman Racket Sports Committee. She praised the quality of organisation and officiating, noting that Omani women had shown their ability to contribute effectively both on and off the court.
The final showed a good technical level and confirmed the progress of Omani players in badminton, she said, adding that the tournament reflected the committee’s efforts to empower women in racket sports and widen their competitive opportunities.
Ruqaya al Omairi, who also served as the tournament referee, said the championship was successful from both technical and organisational perspectives. She added that the presence of a full Omani women’s refereeing team helped develop female officials and provided them with important practical experience.
Champion Hind al Rashdi, representing Salalah Club, said the title was a major motivation for her to continue working hard. The competition was very strong, and the levels were close. Winning first place gives me a big push for the coming tournaments, she said, thanking Salalah Club for its support throughout her journey.
Player Miral al Hosni said the tournament showed clear improvement among Omani players compared with previous competitions. She added that her ambition is to keep developing her skills and eventually represent Oman in international championships, with the Olympic Games remaining her biggest dream.
The championship underlined the steady progress of women’s badminton in Oman, not only through the players' performances but also through the growing presence of female organisers and officials.
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