Star of the badminton stage

Rising badminton star wins U17 European title

Year 8 pupil, Mutiara, has claimed the U17 European title at the Austrian U17 Badminton Open 2026, causing her European U17 ranking to climb to 27. 

This is Mutiara’s second non-UK title, following her win at the U17 Slovenia International 2025, cementing her status as a rising star on the international badminton stage. 

Representing England, Mutiara faced three close three-set matches in the lead up to the final where she claimed the Women’s Singles title in another three-set match with a score of 25-23/19-21/21-9. 

The Austrian tournament was played at the end of a three-month competition period for Mutiara, giving her important exposure to the demands of a long tournament block – managing fatigue, adapting between matches, staying mentally composed, and continuing to perform under pressure. 

Reflecting on the experience, Mutiara said: “After all the the tough matches at the start, it was during the final match where I played my hardest opponent in the tournament. Both of us were chasing gold and I was locked in and in the zone. I played to the best of my ability, giving all my strength, knowing that the training I’ve been working towards has come to this. The phrases that were repeating in my mind were ‘don’t give up’ and ‘fight for every single point’”. 

This is an outstanding achievement and clearly demonstrates Mutiara’s talent for the sport. To claim the U17 title against strong players from across Europe is a remarkable accomplishment; one which pays testament both to her commitment to badminton and her drive to compete at professional level.

Dr Fiona Miles, Head of Loughborough High School

Mutiara was also part of Loughborough High School’s Key Stage 3 badminton team who made history last year by winning two national competitions in less than a week, securing their place as one of the country’s top school badminton teams. 

Mutiara is supported by Badminton England as a transition athlete, training with the national programme two days a week. Her international tournament programme is fully funded by Badminton England, with coaching-team support helping her gain valuable preparation and experience as she progresses through the England pathway. 

Mutiara’s success results from a love of the sport and an aim to compete at the highest level. Her latest win has further equipped her with a strong sense of resilience, teaching her how to stay calm under match pressure.

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