At just 19 years old, Yusack Christian arrived with over eight years of experience training within one of Indonesia’s leading badminton clubs—part of one of the world’s most respected badminton systems. Still an active competitor, Yusack joined Newport Badminton Academy as part of a unique international exchange programme, bringing elite-level experience, professionalism, and a fresh perspective to players in Wales while continuing his own development.

For those sharing the court with him, it has now marked a rare opportunity. Elite sparring. A different style of play. A professional mindset shaped within one of badminton’s strongest nations. These are just some of the qualities Yusack is bringing to every training session and the badminton environment.

Building International Bridges

The exchange programme was made possible through Newport Badminton Academy coach Raj Popat’s long-standing friendship with Simon Santoso, the former World No. 3 men’s singles player. Together, they created an initiative that allowed Yusack to experience European culture while maintaining a high-performance training environment and contributing to player development in Wales.

For Raj, bringing in an active international player had always been a priority.

“We wanted to invite someone who is still competing at a high level. The objective was to provide quality sparring, but also for his work ethic, discipline, and mentality to rub off on our younger players. He would support their technical development, offer a different playing style, and help raise the overall standard within the academy.”

Raj Popat, Newport Badminton Academy

First-Hand Insight Into an Elite System

Indonesia’s reputation in badminton needs little introduction. The nation has produced Olympic champions, World Champions, and generations of elite players renowned for their speed, skill, and relentless work ethic. Through Yusack, players at Newport Badminton Academy have gained a rare insight into that culture—not through videos or stories, but by experiencing it first-hand on court.

Raj believes those daily interactions will leave a lasting impact beyond technical development.

“I wanted our players to experience first-hand the intensity, discipline, professionalism, and quality required to compete at a higher level. I expected him to challenge our players, share his experience, assist with coaching, and bring a different perspective to their development.”

Raj Popat

For young athletes with ambitions of competing internationally, the opportunity to train alongside someone who has developed within Indonesia’s elite badminton system has provided a valuable benchmark of what the highest standards demand. And while Yusack’s presence has undoubtedly strengthened the quality of training, Raj believes the greatest impact will be on the players’ mindset.

“Most importantly, I wanted our players to leave every session understanding that there is another level to reach and to be inspired to work towards it. We wanted to raise the standards, challenge our players, and create an environment where international-level badminton becomes something they experience, not just aspire to.”

Raj Popat

Yusack Christian’s arrival was more than the addition of another talented player to Newport Badminton Academy. It represented a commitment to creating international opportunities, sharing knowledge across borders, and exposing Welsh players to one of the world’s most successful badminton cultures.