For the first time, Christo Popov is European Champion in men’s singles.

The charismatic Frenchman has just won the final at the 2026 European Championships, defeating Anders Antonsen.

With two of Europe’s very best facing off, ranked No. 1 and No. 2 in Europe, and No. 3 and No. 5 in the world, the stage was set for a blockbuster final. Heading into the match, Anders Antonsen led the head-to-head 3–2, and the last time they met, it was the Dane who came out on top, in the final of the 2026 European Men’s Team Championships in February.

Today, however, it was Christo Popov who made the stronger start, quickly finding his rhythm. He raced into a 4–0 lead and never gave up the leas. The two played many high-quality, extended rallies, but Antonsen struggled to find solutions in a game that Popov won 21–12.
The second game was much closer, with momentum shifting back and forth all the way to the end. Both players showed exactly why they belong among the world’s elite. When it mattered most, Popov had the slight edge, and when Antonsen sent the shuttle long at 20–19, Popov could raise his arms in celebration and throw his racket into the crowd as he was crowned the 2026 European Champion.

After the match Christo Popov said on court "I am so happy. I have been waiting for this for so long."

Today’s gold medal is the first European Championships title in men’s singles for Christo Popov. He previously won silver in men’s singles at the 2023 European Games and bronze at last year’s European Championships in Horsens.

In addition to his singles achievements, Popov won the European Championships men’s doubles title last year alongside his older brother, Toma Junior Popov. Later today, the brothers will attempt to defend their title when they face Ben Lane and Sean Vendy from England in the final.