TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Indonesia’s men’s singles badminton player Jonatan Christie has withdrawn from the 2026 Indonesia Masters, which will be held at Istora Senayan in Jakarta from January 19 to 25, citing the need to preserve his physical condition.
The decision follows Jonatan’s participation in two consecutive international tournaments. At the 2026 Malaysia Open, held from January 6 to 11, he reached the semifinals before losing in straight games to Thailand’s Kunlavut Vitidsarn.
He then advanced to the final of the 2026 India Open, which took place from January 13 to 18, but was again defeated in straight games, this time by Taiwan’s Lin Chun-yi.
Jonatan, popularly known as Jojo, expressed his regret at being unable to compete in front of home fans.
“This was a very difficult decision because playing at home is a matter of pride, especially with family and supporters watching directly,” he said in a statement released by the Indonesian Badminton Association (PBSI) on Monday, January 19, 2026.
However, the 28-year-old emphasized the importance of listening to his body after an intense competition schedule.
“I have to pay attention to my physical and mental condition, which has been pushed to the limit over the past two weeks,” he said.
Jonatan said the decision was informed by his experience last year, when competing in three consecutive badminton tournaments took a toll on his fitness.
“Playing in three tournaments in a row had a significant impact on my condition afterward. I want to avoid repeating that,” he said.
"Rest is now the primary option rather than pushing beyond my capacity, which poses a risk of injury."
Following Jonatan’s withdrawal, Indonesia will be represented in the men’s singles main draw by Alwi Farhan and Moh Zaki Ubaidillah.
Four other Indonesian players, Yohanes Saut Marcellyno, Muhammad Yusuf, Prahdiska Bagas Shujiwo, and Anthony Sinisuka Ginting, will compete in the qualifying rounds of the tournament.
