Alexander Zhukov: «Сhampion title won by Ivanov and Sozonov is a historical result for Russian Badminton and the most important victory in the run-up to the Games in Rio»

President of the Russian Olympic Committee Alexander Zhukov congratulated the European Badminton Doubles champions Vladimir Ivanov and Ivan Sozonov on their victory in the 2016 All England Championships, which is regarded as the unofficial World Championships.

Alexander Zhukov:

‘It was an outstanding tournament, a great performance and a deserved victory! I sincerely congratulate Vladimir and Ivan on their success, the importance of which can hardly be overestimated. It’s the first time in more than a century’s history of this prestigious competitions, that our badminton players manage to take first place they at once managed to beat very strong rivals from China, Japan and the world rankings leader, a South Korean couple.

The champion’s title won by Ivanov and Sozonov is a historical result and the most important victory for Russian Badminton in anticipation of the Rio Games. And it also virtually secured their Olympic berth.

Four  years ago at the London Olympic Games we won our first Bronze medal in Badminton, also in doubles but in women’s competition. It is obvious that this discipline has recently been progressing in our country and we can expect that the Russian team will perform  well in Brazil, that it will fight for the top places, despite extremely high competition. Anyway our guys passed the test competition in England with great success.

I wish you all future achievements, striking matches and big wins!”