Kento Momota - The HEARTBREAKING Story of a Badminton Legend

Рет қаралды 56,695

Күн бұрын

His decision to retire completely shook the badminton world not just because of his amazing badminton, his dominance at his prime, or the fact he has millions of fans world wide.
But because of the tragic reasons behind his reason to retire.
Tragedy which seemed to befall him at every turn the past few years.
Tragedy which has left all badminton fans with a whole host of questions…what ifs…what could have beens…
There is no doubting Kento Momota had a fantastic career, he was a 2x world champion, 2x Asian champion, All England champion, and he holds the Guiness World Record for most titles in a calendar year at 11, but many felt there was so much more he could have achieved.
It’s fair to say there’s a vast majority that think Kento Momota could have become the next Lin Dan, maybe even surpass him.
It’s for this reason that I have decided to dive into Kento Momota’s career and lay it all out for you. Only then can you fully appreciate the magnitude of his career, understand why people feel he could have become the greatest ever, and just why his retirement left so many shocked and saddened.
This is the heartbreaking journey of Kento Momota -
#badminton #KentoMomota #youtube #youtuber #bulutangkis #badmintonlover #indonesia #桃田贤斗
Thank you as ever to my guy on the thumbnails @xi40tong (IG), my wife for her amazing work with the subtitles, and I'd also like to thank everyone who helped me find articles or stories for this video and for those who helped me translate some sections. You know who you are :)
I hope you all enjoy this one everyone.
00:00 - 1:34 - Introduction
1:34 - 7:06 - Junior days
7:06 - 9:04 - First year as a senior
9:04 - 12:50 - Thomas Cup Champions
12:50 - 18:00 - Breakthrough year for Momota
18:00 - 24:50 - Gambling ban and his comeback
24:50 - 32:49 - Back better than ever
32:49 - 35:45 - Momogi and changes needed
35:45 - 46:05 - 2019 a year of great change and records
46:05 - 52:00 - 2020 a lifechanging year
52:00 - 1:01:52 - 2021 it couldn't get much worse could it?
1:01:52 - 1:06:16 - 2022 Momota questions his love for badminton
1:06:16 - 1:09:38 - 2023 a glimmer of hope for Momota
1:09:38 - 1:13:19 - 2024 Momota retires
1:13:19 - 1:15:52 - One last dance
1:15:52 - 1:19:32 - Outro

Пікірлер: 459

@takeru_adelbert Ай бұрын

1:04:54 "His confidence was already at rock bottom and he has suffered a very hard loss for not just himself, but his nation too. And then to hear that he was MOCKED by a player he had always LOOKED UP TO! Well, that is like rubbing salt in a wound...!" yes, this is very true, and this is the most heartbreaking for me if I were Momota 💔

@takeru_adelbert Ай бұрын

1:30 this is really worth to watch 👍

@rezhaadriantanuharja3389 Ай бұрын

That Lee Chong Wei’s livestream was insane. Out of all people, you’d think that LCW was the one who could sympathize with Momota, as he had suffered an utter destruction himself in 2008. The way he said such things, no wonder he received so much backlash at that time

@maxinemxmillian6073 Ай бұрын

That LCW livestream you're referring to is featured in this Momota video?

@rezhaadriantanuharja3389 Ай бұрын

@@maxinemxmillian6073 yup towards the end of the video, when Momota lost to Lee Zi Jia in a team event

@BenBeckmanBadminton Ай бұрын

yeah it was quite shocking!

@BenBeckmanBadminton Ай бұрын

I tried to unearth most things and sadly that was one of them

@LeMon-wb1sl Ай бұрын

@@BenBeckmanBadminton Was LCW's statement that bad? When I watched that snippet (before I looked at the comments), it seemed like a non-offensive statement. If you play badminton, you might experience times when you are at a loss on how to play your opponent. Whatever you tried to do doesn't work. All the 50-50 shots goes against you. Et cetera. Given the context, LCW was clearly referring to this when he said that. Hence -> "Seemed like he doesn't know how to play (his opponent)." What he said next reinforces this narrative. Sadly it was mistranslated (not sure by you, or by the original uploader). The literal translation should be "it is as if he couldn't find the feeling", but in that context, I would have translated it as "it is as if he couldn't find the rhythm." Overall comment, it is not cool to de-base a legend to lift up another legend.

@quanmai_rzb Ай бұрын

This should be on Netflix, very well done Ben!

@BenBeckmanBadminton Ай бұрын

You are too kind. Thank you 🤗

@user-gp1gx2tu7q Ай бұрын

Thank you for being so brave to expose a scene that no one understands. If your character is bad, no matter how good your skills are, you will be annoying! To all Malaysians, do you know now that the hero you admired actually did such a shameful thing?

@baney123 Ай бұрын

As a Malaysian badminton fan for over 20 years, I witnessed the era before LCW. While I respect LCW legendary status, I've never personally admired him as I know this is how he is. Besides, I was a fan of TBH during his peak. A few years ago, I unfollowed him due to his frequent criticism of his junior player in social media. This video doesn't surprise me.

@jenjen8705 Ай бұрын

I am a malaysian but I have never admired him . Thanks

@user-ww4uu4xx6b Ай бұрын

⁠@@baney123yeah, can’t agreed more with you!

@elainechiang4658 Ай бұрын

@@baney123 yes! Agree! TBH IS REALLY A 💩

@yzz8833 Ай бұрын

@baney123 same here , agree with you👍

@nev4044 Ай бұрын

LCW used to be my idol until I met him. It was after his win at the 2014 Malaysia Open where he beat Sugiarto. He happened to be at the same hotel where all the players were staying and he was talking to Tago outside the lifts. I was also waiting for the lifts to go up to my room so when they finished talking I asked him for a photo. He waved me off and said I'm busy. We ended up riding the lift up together and that was it. He strikes me as not a very nice person when the media and fanfare are not around.

@nnaim9347 Ай бұрын

ahhh.. no wonder he can't stand the fact that nowadays malaysian badminton players have alot of fans and some of these players are quite active in social media. he himself dislike entertaining supporters. lol

@trevorx7872 Ай бұрын

i can understand this, somewhat. it must get a bit annoying to have people always asking for pictures, when you just want to go eat dinner or whatever. but the livestream thing was pretty shit of him, that part's true.

@gamerzlol6176 Ай бұрын

on court he may be the best of the best but off court nobody knows

@kingofsquids Ай бұрын

He didn't owe you a photo and it is his right to decline

@bennylava8717 15 күн бұрын

welcome to reality, i never like lcw from my observation of his on court sportmanship, you confirm that similar arrogance off court. However, lcw fans are blinded by boleh energy as lcw is all they got to cheer about for malaysia.

@user-ww4uu4xx6b Ай бұрын

I can’t believe what I heard from DLCW and others, the way how they joke on Momota really make me feel insane😡

@droneascent Ай бұрын

I'm from Malaysia. I've never been one to comment on a KZfaq video, ever. But having seen this documentary about Kento Momota, I just felt I had to. I'm an avid fan of Momota, I play badminton myself at a young age and he was one of the player that I look up to. His accomplishment over the years of his career was no doubt a feat that NO ONE could compare or even beat it, not even the likes of badminton legends - Lee Chong Wei / Lin Dan / Peter Gade / Taufik Hidayat. But it all came crushing down for him after the accident that he had in Malaysia, and that was the start of everything falling for him, I've seen him tried his very best to get back to top form, the same as everyone has hoped, but as fate has it, it didn't. But I guess, that's just life, you can't blame anyone or anything, no one or nothing is at fault, it's just what it is. Kento Momota, you are an absolute legend in the badminton world, and that is still an understatement, everyone will remember your name, and it will go down in history, thank you for all the moments you had gave to all of us badminton fans, cheers to your life post-badminton, thank you Kento Momota.

@user-nl4tt1yb9o Ай бұрын

"NO ONE could compare or even beat it, not even the likes of badminton legends - Lee Chong Wei / Lin Dan / Peter Gade / Taufik Hidayat." Quite pushing it

@yenpingwong4337 Ай бұрын

You can see how he treats LZj. It’s very embarrassing for a senior.

@AdityaDhinesh Ай бұрын

@@user-nl4tt1yb9oonly Lin Dan might have had more potential than momota ,if momota reached his true potential he would blow out Lee Chong Wei .Plus Lee Chong Wei only has silvers

@user-nl4tt1yb9o Ай бұрын

@@AdityaDhinesh Well "blow out Lee Chong Wei" is "almost" pushing it because he was a very close second to Lin Dan. I think it would be more accurate to say he would have been the 3rd challenger to Lin Dan aside from Lee Chong Wei in born in the same era.

@AdityaDhinesh Ай бұрын

@@user-nl4tt1yb9o Lee Chong Wei isn’t anywhere near lin Dan lol .He has more superseries wins but Lin Dan has two Olympic medals and 5 world champs there’s no comparison plus h2h is 28-12

@user-qw7fl8df7p Ай бұрын

No matter how great you are, making fun of someone's failure shows poor character. A true legend shouldn't mock others' mistakes, as if they've never made any themselves. Achieving greatness doesn't mean belittling those who haven't. Claiming it was just a joke, especially during a livestream, shows a lack of awareness. Do you not realize everyone is watching? What goes online, stays online permanently ✌🏼

@nathanyein9968 Ай бұрын

Who was mocking who?

@adrenaline2002 Ай бұрын

Lee Chong Wei, Koo Kien Keat, Tan Boon Heong were all mocking Kento Momota.

@sohnee8791 Ай бұрын

I respect LCW as a legendary badminton player but his critics and comments on other players when they are in their darkest time is outrageous.

@lions12. Ай бұрын

Kento . GOAT. Legend . Same rank as Lin Dan & LCW . GOAT badminton single players .

@user-tj2kg1fm7o Ай бұрын

Long awaited movie but it’s finally here!!

@BenBeckmanBadminton Ай бұрын

Finally 🙌🎊

@canbeanyname Ай бұрын

As a Malaysian and Momota’s fan, I always feel bad thinking abt that car accident that changed Momota’s life. I know it was an accident n our highways are kinda notorious where accidents happened - even our own national squash player had car accident. The feeling is always bad n thus I felt fed up when LCW made such comments at livestream. I get to know a close friend of LCW, I asked him why LCW made such ‘jokes’. He insisted that LCW treats Momota as a good friend - but what on earth would u mock your good friend in the public knowing the struggles he has been going through ?! Not to mention the accident happened in our country. Does LCW hv a heart?? That moment I felt ashamed for supporting him all those years as our national hero. He lost all my respect n I unfollowed him on social media right aftr the livestream.

@BenBeckmanBadminton Ай бұрын

it certainly wasn't LCW's best moment for sure

@hearmeand3044 Ай бұрын

Imagine the person you look up to mock you. I want to know how Momota feels.😢😞

@tonosuhartono2883 Ай бұрын

Thank you for making this, Ben. Life is unfair but badminton world will remember him forever.

@BenBeckmanBadminton Ай бұрын

he will always be remembered :)

@jeetsb Ай бұрын

Thank you so much for making this video Ben. This was a well needed closure to the story of one of the greatest players to have ever held the badminton racquet. Your emphasis on his personality outside of court, his selfless character, the manner in which he won his matches and the ever so warm humility of Kento Momota, catches the essence of why we all love him. The tale of Momota needs to be told and this video is a brilliant attempt at it. Thank you for making this!

@BenBeckmanBadminton Ай бұрын

I'm glad that all came across. It's what I was going for 😊

@Jzpssngthru Ай бұрын

As a Malaysian I’m extremely ashamed of what LCW said.

@BenBeckmanBadminton Ай бұрын

there are many feeling the same way as you

@yhchannicholas Ай бұрын

@@BenBeckmanBadminton What LCW said was actually interpreted wrongly! He said "It looks like he (Kento) can't find his feel". In context, LCW was referring to Kento not being to find the "right feel/touch" with the shuttle in the match. And didn't make fun of him. A fair comment of why he may have lost. But, what LCW's former teammate said was distasteful. Im not Malaysian, but I know Malay from prior learning.

@Justlookingaround19 Ай бұрын

@@yhchannicholas As a Malaysian i can tell you that he definitely said Momota didn't know how to play badminton there is no sugar coating those words. I don't think anyone at their low point would be Ok with hearing their Idol say that they are currently playing as if they have never played badminton before. To make it worst TBH said his racket had not strings and Rexy said that his hands are cold he just came back from a Cold country. No excuses should be made for this kind of behavior as they were clearly making fun of him. You can see many Malaysians in the comments that are very disappointed in LCW as we know that he was being really insensitive.

@alexanderloi5194 24 күн бұрын

I never knew about the livestream until now, Im Malaysian but while I disagree with LCW, TBH and KKK mocking him, to the ones doing the mocking for them its friendly banter. Its pretty common here in malaysia but do it too much i believe nobody will like it such as myself. But yea LCW had so much respect for Momota's skill when he was starting to be good him I never thought he would be the one to be mocking him

@user-ww4uu4xx6b Ай бұрын

As a Malaysian, I feel shame for LCW/ TBH and KKK. Sorry Momota 😢💔

@zst1655 Ай бұрын

Truly lived up to his very name - Kent-o Momota. It was given to him by his parents, who had named him after Clark Kent, or as you may know, Superman. He had truly lived the superman life -- from the outstanding talent he had in badminton, whether it's footwork, net skills, or power, to the confidence and composure, the patience in every match, to the dominance he had reigned over badminton for the 2 years he was able to, to the resilience he was able to show at at every setback, and finally, to the selfless and carefree nature he has shown to himself, his friends, family, and all of us. Pulling miracle after miracle, Momota had placed this hopeful dream, this fantasy inside of all of us -- that he would come back, no matter what. It was a beautiful story, but unfortunately, all stories will end. It may not be the best ending you'd hoped for, but taking a deeper look, perhaps it was still quite the miracle ending (just not the one we expected). Many professionals end their careers after a downfall in their name and ranking. Momota, however, only gained more popularity. Ending your career on the very place that started everything. I think that is a dream on its own. After all, those 3 matches he had seemed to be one of the happiest, most enjoyable moments he had in badminton (even better than when he was at his "peak"). Hopefully BWF nominates him as one of the legends, because I truly believe he has the crowd support and skills to do so. Otherwise, I believe he'll still do great things for badminton in several other ways to make the sport grow. He'd shown us the type of person he is, after all. Happy retirement, Kento Momota. 🏸

@Cilantro2232 Ай бұрын

What a disgrace LCW is to all of us Malaysians! How could he mock Momota when he’s trying so hard to bounce back from the horrid accident? Don’t think we can call LCW legend anymore after watching that videoclip of his.

@user-ww4uu4xx6b Ай бұрын

Forever Legend of critics

@Cilantro2232 Ай бұрын

@@user-ww4uu4xx6bvery well said and so true

@__an__ndh__ Ай бұрын

Yes. You are right.. He maybe a great badminton player, but not a good human..

@SebastianDelgado1628 Ай бұрын

Yeah it’s disgraceful, I don’t see him as a “humble” person anymore, maybe a legendary player but not a legendary person

@enricomramilla Ай бұрын

Unfollowing LCW ,, hearing him to mock KM,, lcw forgot that all of KM downfalls starts in car accident that happens in his country Malaysia

@terrytheodore8667 Ай бұрын

I have been his fan since I was in high school and now I just finished my master's degree. There are plenty of ups and downs throughout the year. During my high school times, I noticed that he was in the top 4 and around 2016-2017 he vanished from the top 10 rank. I didn't know about the gambling case with Kenichi Tago because I hadn't done any research at that time. After his comeback, he proved to everyone that he deserved to be at the top by winning 11 titles in 1 year (at this time I just knew about the case). Then everything changed after the accident in Malaysia and the COVID-19 pandemic. On his first match during his 2nd comeback, I recorded as my Instagram story and I just realised that he saw it (best feeling ever). I have saved it forever on my phone as proof. He won several titles but he is not the same anymore. "A person cannot walk the right path 100%. If you make a mistake, notice it, change yourself, become a new strong man, return home". Happy retirement, you were there for a good time not a long time!

@eugp4198 Ай бұрын

Malaysians love Momota.. The crowd cheered for him when he was playing in the Axiata Arena as though it was his home ground. It is very sad that he is hanging his racket so soon .. 😢 I have long lost my respect for the seniors. They are just holding on to their past glory days. Don't really pay much attention to what they are doing these days ..

@Solomon_C Ай бұрын

The fact that Momota still maintained his never-say-die attitude even after that much bad luck is admirable. I have a lot of respect for him.

@BenBeckmanBadminton Ай бұрын

Me too

@sharonmanjet6756 Ай бұрын

When I started playing badminton Lee Chong Wei and Lin Dan was the two legends I was looking up to for skills and playing style for my game of badminton, when kento momota came in and he was the first Japanese men’s singles player to be in top seeding, his humbleness and style and skills and one of the best defensive player I’ve seen on court, Lee and Lin hands down was the best in their era, I dnt think anyone was close to them that time of badminton, but kento achieved everything in short period of time, 2018 was the start and 2019 he got where he wanted to be, and 2020 it all crashed.. one of the best games of his is yonex all England 2019 first Japanese men’s singles player to achieve it, one player I’ve seen has so much fan base even when he is not in his best. We all tend to change our favorite sportsmen when time changes, but for kento it’s just that he has won lots of heart.. Thomas cup I enjoyed every single fractional second of his game in the court and sadly it has to end in quarters… legend is always a legend we as badminton lovers we will always love you kento.. I took one step ahead and bought almost all the jerseys he’s been wearing for the super series hahaha.. we will always love you kento momota.

@weihanlee2309 Ай бұрын

Amazing video Ben, as a huge fan of Momota, I really appreciated your love and effort put into making this, this is such a huge homage to one of the greatest shuttler ever. I do hope and believe that Momota will see your work, and he will be so grateful of it. (he's really a huge fan of social media 🤣) I am a huge badminton nerd myself and I love listening to your analysis and narration, please do make more and more videos! Also, as a Malaysian I hope that LCW's remark won't make you feel too negative about him. In a tiktok livestream after his lost in the Tokyo Olympics featuring him and LinDan, LCW insisted that Momota's skills are still up there and he played super good, his lost might be because of his highly stressed mental state (IIRC). If you want to watch the video, I can share it to you. But this showed that LCW does look up to Momota and acknowledge his greatness.

@BenBeckmanBadminton Ай бұрын

Thanks for the kind words, I will certainly be doing more and more videos like this. I'm regards to LCW, it hasn't really changed my opinion about him because I only know him as a player, of which he was incredible. I don't believe there was anything truly malicious in that IG live but it just wasn't good timing and was just distasteful in my eyes. I have no doubt all 3 players know Momota is great and rate him as a player, but their judgement at that moment, in hindsight, was off

@michellelau7027 Ай бұрын

Ben you made me teared up!!! Thank you for really unearth the story of kento momota his ups and downs!! We hope we can see momota more as coach hehe. Also great that u pointed out that disgraceful remarks from tbh lcw and kkk. As Malaysian we too found their comments too unprofessional in the livestream

@gamerzlol6176 Ай бұрын

THANK YOU BEN FOR THIS MASTERPIECE

@BenBeckmanBadminton Ай бұрын

more than welcome :)

@edwardmiracle5031 Ай бұрын

Thank you for this amazing video. I'm from Indonesia but i really idolizing Kento Momota. He's extraordinary. He's like a fairy tale. Not born from Strong Badminton country and doesn't have physical advantage like Lin Dan, Lee Chong Wei, Victor Axelsen or any other player. Seeing him it's like see Lionel Messi in football and Stephen Curry in basketball.

@mazenling4292 Ай бұрын

Momota is taller than lee cw, in fact lee is shortest of all the names mentioned.

@Jazzyleopard Ай бұрын

Did not catch that live stream but good catch! Just my 2 cents, LCW enjoys an almost God like status in MAS, being a relatively small country. Due to that he has been quite vocal on many issues, for various reasons, and his opinions tend to be taken wholesale by netizens. Perhaps he is too entitled in this regard? Judging by the comments he made about current BAM players and LZJ, it seems like he is actively trying more so to protect his legacy than to provide actual feedback. If he could point out the problem, and claims that he could solve it, why not act on it? Food for thought. Otherwise brilliant video as always, Ben. Awesome insight and brilliant narration, did not realise an hour has passed by just like that 😊

@AgentJ2007 Ай бұрын

Yes, his comments on LZJ were extremely self-serving. It was regarding the attire dispute LZJ had with BAM. LZJ is sponsored by Victor. In those contracts, player is required to wear the brand attire not just on televised matches but also in training. Instead of trying to reach a peaceful resolution, he took sides and criticized LZJ. Malaysia team is sponsored by Yonex. And of course, LCW is sponsored by Yonex. He’s basically just looking out for his bottom line. You can’t trust LCW to be fair and objective. Not the sharpest tool in the shed.

@user-ww4uu4xx6b Ай бұрын

⁠@@AgentJ2007Can’t agree more with you! DLCW is even more arrogant than someone else who got World Titles like LD/ CL and HT, his achievements are not compatible them.

@Jazzyleopard Ай бұрын

There are plenty of moments where one would struggle to consider LCW humble, especially when facing lower ranked players or the way he presents himself in (Malaysian) media. Based on his comments he never gives any real praise or assessment on the other pros, only chiming in with “see I told you he is going to win” sentiments whenever the player in hand achieves something. The only man to keep him humble and humbled, LD is in large parts confident or even “arrogant” on court, but more so in the intense projection of his aura rather than cheap tricks ie stare downs, showboating, smashing at people during netkills even when there are plenty of space around etc. Even during interviews his assessments carry more insight and is grounded, especially concerning the national team of which he often places above himself. In these regards he is more professional than LCW, around whom the world often seems to revolve.

@rishavdevrani8219 Ай бұрын

His retirement truly shook me to the core, kept me in bed for a day and my mind drowned in disbelief for days (still sorta am), how does one swallow this, let alone digest it? if there has been one player I have truly been captivated, mesmerized and spellbound by is him. the beauty of him, as a player, as an athlete, and as a person pinned me to seats and glistened my eyes with pure admiration. what finesse, what kindness, what skill and what hard worked that oozed unrelenting through his presence on the court. one can never replicate what he brought to the sport. a star that shone so brightly unfortunately very shortly. i think I sought relief in knowing that no matter what occurred in my own life, what tragedy, what trophies or the unremarkable-ness of it, somewhere on a court in a tournament, momota was shinning brightly without an iota of arrogance, climbing the podium with grace and gratitude. the surety of it all, brought me peace. that one must persist, with hard work and grace. I saw his rise, celebrated his prime, prayed during his struggles, even stayed hopeful in his late-blooming re-rise. but his retirement, took me by surprise to say the least. it means a lot of things, for badminton as a sports, as a community, for him personally, for his nation, and for the fans but somehow, I felt very personal for alot of us. it made me register that time had passed, I had lived and outlived over ten years of my life since then this journey with him began. it also made me register that all good things, all reigns no matter how deserved and well-fought for must come to an end. that valor is fleeting. that the kindness, that the hard-work, that the resilience is sometimes not enough. it made me register the severity of his accident and how detrimental it was. that sometimes things happen that are out of your control, and can alter the trajectory of your life. looking back, reminiscing all this, will always bring a itch of sadness to me, but I can only relish the opportunity i had to witness it all.

@NurulHidayah-nw9gz Ай бұрын

A tragic hero! But a hero is still a hero ❤ pretty sure every Badminton fans will recognize him as legend. His resilient spirit is no joke. And truly embarasssing statement coming from LCW. Nothing can justify such behaviour. It is not funny to joke on someone else downfall especially after such horrific accident!

@user-ww4uu4xx6b Ай бұрын

Yeah! Very disgraceful and irrespective speeches uttered from their mouth! I was used to be his fans 😢

@reinartes7079 Ай бұрын

@@user-ww4uu4xx6b Yes, it's so unfortunate. As a fan of LCW, this is devastating to see. That's why people say never meet your heroes. They can be the greatest legend and be a terrible person at the same time. I still respect what LCW has achieved, but I don't know if I still respect him as a person.

@SA0450 Ай бұрын

It was just a banter. Stop exaggerating. They are still friends till now

@alvinyg21 Ай бұрын

@@SA0450 is that fun ?

@SA0450 Ай бұрын

@@alvinyg21 what is?

@theresiahutauruk8460 Ай бұрын

Thank you for the recap! Much appreciated❤ wishing Momota a happier life on his next life chapter!

@mutangbaru Ай бұрын

heartbreaking. like I've said before, there's something special about lefty players. they have this some kind of fluid, smooth movement and footwork. always mesmerizing, tantalizing to watch. thank you Kento Momota!

@rubyyew6414 Ай бұрын

Thank you KENTO MOMOTA. And thank you Ben for making this video. Appreciate it so much🙏

@edthorn6891 Ай бұрын

The definitive Kento Momota career doc. Thanks for putting this together, has a real sense of importance.

@auzistar Ай бұрын

Thank you for making the video! Kento Momota is really one of the world best players to watch, so magical in his prime. May he continue to enjoy life with badminton! A Legend, not only in his skills, but also in his humble personality.

@chrissyong2210 Ай бұрын

How inspiring, this story of resilience and strength, and that he always thought about his country first, respected his opponents, and these made his matches all the more enjoyable to watch because of his positive and polite behavior. How blessed, the junior players of Japan who has this role model to learn from! What an admirable athlete and his name will remain in the history of badminton for a long long time. thanks Ben for sharing this with us, it is deeply educational.

@nev4044 Ай бұрын

Amazing video as always Ben, appreciate all your hard work going into this one ❤

@BcTrinidad510 Ай бұрын

He's a Coach/ Mentor now, our dearest Kento. And that means his past just taught him he can be more than just all his setbacks esp. the tragic accident that taken a toil in his career that leads to his early retirement. He had his prime, was on his best, and had his reign, but life happens. As for me, he is at his happiest now, happiest and best; not as a player but as a Coach and a Mentor. And that is more than just proving others that he can still be the best in court, by proving to his self that he can still be through believing and having the faith that God's grace and faith is upon his beautiful soul by coaching and mentoring others to be as great as him and more. You know a true Legend when he gains respect, admiration and keep inpisring other (I for one) more than just gaining a fame through his game. Being a King in court not only just by his phoenamenal skills, techniques, and styles; He is a King because he is Kento Momota, a soul with unwavering faith, incredibly court ethics, admirable confidence and humbleness, great discipline and composure and definitely his inspiring determination ; that is what makes him the GOAT and indeed the King and a Legend in Badminton world. If you think of Badminton, you will definitely think of Kento Momota; THE LEGEND-THE KING-THE GOAT OF BADMINTON. You'll always be my Champ, COACH KENTO MOMOTA♥️. ALWAYS. Stay healthy and well, we're so much excited and proud of you more than ever. We'll see you and TANAKA in an International Court soon.🙏🫰 All the love From your number 1 fan in PH 🇵🇭🫰❤🙌

@BcTrinidad510 Ай бұрын

I could write a novel about this phenomenal soul, I am just so proud where he is now, and so inspired like always. Thanks for this, Ben.🙏🫰 From Kento's number 1 fan in PH 🇵🇭.

@BenBeckmanBadminton Ай бұрын

You're more than welcome. Sounds like my video lived up to your high expectations 😊

@BcTrinidad510 Ай бұрын

I always love your videos, Ben. This one is the best for me ( since I am this Legends fan 😁), but kudos for your time and effort making these video🙌♥️👍🫰. Keep your good purpose in all that you do. God bless, Ben. BTW, I am also a fan of yours. Ben Beckman is always a Ben Beckman. 🫰

@BenBeckmanBadminton Ай бұрын

@@BcTrinidad510 thank you man. I can feel the love 😊🙌

@BcTrinidad510 Ай бұрын

OMG!!! 😳🫣😱 @@BenBeckmanBadmintonmeans a lot that you're actually responding🤭I was like, OMG this is crazy! And I am screaming right now man! One day, I really hope to meet you. One day! 🙏🤜🤛🤞

@jackburtonstwin Ай бұрын

Well done, Ben. An exhaustive and fitting retrospective to one of badminton's greatest players. Indeed, not just a great player but a good person too. I am reminded of the expression that the candle that burns twice as bright burns half as long. My hope is that, being such an obvious and committed team player, Kento will remain attached to Japanese badminton and find value in bringing forward that nation's next great coterie of world class players. For me, Kento's playing style, his smoothness, ease of transition, vision, tactical awareness and all-court mobility are sport-defining qualities and he is, legitimately, a badminton great.

@keys4321 Ай бұрын

Hi Momota, we are in full support of u with immense love. We standby u! U deserve so much more than a heartless mockery… We Love You and hope you’re well

@matthieudepallares Ай бұрын

Crazy Stuff Ben ! This video is a perfect resume of the career of Kento ! He is probably the most love player in the world. And it was the best in the world during two years ! Thanks again for this vidéo. MOMOTA CAN BE PROUD ! HE DID EVERYTHING !

@RagingTvFTW Ай бұрын

Thank you so much for this video. Momota is my favorite player of all time and I'm very happy he's remembered for all he's accomplished and his wonderful attitude in this video. Not dwelling on the what-ifs but to enjoy the moment on the court.

@BenBeckmanBadminton Ай бұрын

a good way to look at it

@ok-gs6ze Ай бұрын

Thank you Ben for an such a thoughtful and well-researched video! You are a pioneer to help badminton become more popular throughout the world.

@BenBeckmanBadminton Ай бұрын

if I can help with that then I'd be so happy

@jasonyuchenliu Ай бұрын

Wow! I have no words for how amazing this video is! Definitely THE BEST video you've made and the best Momota video I've seen. Thank you Ben for an incredible tribute to the legend, the undisputed king of badminton, Kento Momota! He will forever be, in my heart, the best badminton player that stepped foot on court!

@BenBeckmanBadminton Ай бұрын

thank you! hopefully I can keep delivering better and better content for you and everyone else

@adityahaomom6526 Ай бұрын

I genuinely appreciate ur hard-work n dedication in making this tribute for Momota

@BenBeckmanBadminton Ай бұрын

Thank you 😊

@itsph3nix Ай бұрын

absolutely heart wrenching. I watched the whole video in one go and got chills at several occasions. I love this video as much as I am frustrated with how Momota's career went. He truly has a incredible fighting spirit

@breathbadminton Ай бұрын

This is crazy. The video better reaches every badminton follower. Great job, all the best Ben!

@eizzatynawawi1320 Ай бұрын

Wow, amazing! I can say it's the documentary about Kento Momota. The way you analyze and explain the events that happened along his career is really well-organized, and the storyline is there. Thanks for this and really appreciate it👏👏

@BenBeckmanBadminton Ай бұрын

and thank you for the view and for your really kind words :)

@jakubsvitak7063 Ай бұрын

Great job, thanks for the video. Definitely worth the time.

@bharathv03 Ай бұрын

no wonder it took you this long for this, but that was well worth the wait well put together, absolute masterpiece

@BenBeckmanBadminton Ай бұрын

thank you :) it was a long project but worth it for all the lovely comments and views :)

@RDENSC Ай бұрын

I must admit, this is a well researched and well crafted video of Kento. Thank you Ben for pulling this splendid video, I had more respect for Kento Momota! Thanks for your video, in a way I get connected to the past.

@BenBeckmanBadminton Ай бұрын

thank you, your words are too kind :) glad you enjoyed the video

@archstanton313 Ай бұрын

Thank you for making this piece.

@BenBeckmanBadminton Ай бұрын

It was my pleasure

@choshi2237 Ай бұрын

I love your videeo i will keep supporting you thank you for uploading

@magnuszebitzsteiness8759 Ай бұрын

WOOO the movie is here. Great job Ben! Can't wait to watch it🔥👏

@BenBeckmanBadminton Ай бұрын

i hope you enjoy it :) let me know

@rohancariappaDHH Ай бұрын

This is so beautifully done. So much respect to you for creating such an amazing documentary/tribute. Top notch storytelling. Momota deserves nothing less ♥️

@BenBeckmanBadminton Ай бұрын

:) :) :)

@enricomramilla Ай бұрын

Thanks Ben,, for making this video, I will save it to my favorite list so it will remain to me for the rest of my life, honestly all the video clips you that you have shown , I watched it all before,, im a avid fan of Japan badminton team esp KM and Akane Yamaguchi I watched and read everything about them, thanks for your efforts and to your wife as well for putting this into one heartwarming documentary that truly touched my heart as a fan and a badminton enthusiast.

@BenBeckmanBadminton Ай бұрын

😊🙌❤️

@miltoswu5771 Ай бұрын

Have never been one to follow singles but he was indeed one of the most dominant of the present era marred by so many unfortunate events. Such an amazing in depth research you did here sir and the presentation just keeps getting better. Happy retirement to one of the best...

@BenBeckmanBadminton Ай бұрын

😊🙌

@kantanbunga4173 Ай бұрын

Thank you ben. Such a complete documentary of momota badminton career.

@ardianworld4129 Ай бұрын

What a breathtaking video Ben! It brought tears to my eyes! This is the video that is truly the ultimate tribute to Momota. I sure hope that he has a happy 'retirement' and enjoys life to its fullest. This man is such an inspiration for others; as an athlete, but certainly as a human being. He deserves all the love and luck there is.

@BenBeckmanBadminton Ай бұрын

I'm glad you think that way 🤗

@Kdotkage Ай бұрын

i love momota. he is my favorite player. thank you for making such a good video.

@BenBeckmanBadminton Ай бұрын

No problem 😊

@andrewcantwell5501 Ай бұрын

What a brilliant documentary Ben. You’ve earned yourself a subscriber today. Hopefully you make plenty more of these type of videos.

@BenBeckmanBadminton Ай бұрын

thanks for subscribing. I'm glad you liked the video and saw merit in subscribing :)

@kst6420 Ай бұрын

Not expect so detailed video Excellent work 👏 👍

@kd-qn9dj Ай бұрын

brother i feel so much remorse for kento , simply bcoz he was one of the best singles player badminton has ever seen never knew this downfall would shatter us all , my heart goes out to momota his stamina, precision, gameplay ,skill was to be seen on how he used to outmanoeuvre his opponents 2019 was time he really developed this attacking mindset and conquered the world , and all that in just 5 years time is just remarkable Appreciate you Ben for giving a wonderful tribute to Young Legend of the game and Iwill forever remember momota and will reminisce by watching his games on youtube and social media

@BenBeckmanBadminton Ай бұрын

He really was quite something. He'll be sorely missed on the world tour

@ThuNguyen-bq8vy Ай бұрын

A well-researched well-composed documentary with your thoughtful commentary. Thanks Ben, I can’t wait to show this to the people outside my badminton circle. Momota’s story is sad in a way, but it’s the kind of sad that you can watch again and again when you need to find strength.

@BenBeckmanBadminton Ай бұрын

thanks for sharing with non-badminton people. Would love to know if they like it

@lionelterre5996 Ай бұрын

Hi Ben, it's very nice to watch all your videos. As a badminton lover, I really appreciate what you're working for we know there are only a small number reviewer in english about this sport. Thank you brother.

@BenBeckmanBadminton Ай бұрын

you're welcome. I hope to see more people doing this and helping it grow and grow

@wycombewarriorsbc Ай бұрын

Amazing video⭐️. The effort and commitment to make this video is unbelievable, well done Ben.👏🏽

@BenBeckmanBadminton Ай бұрын

thank you :)

@mv9143 Ай бұрын

Great job in making such a beautiful video. I always liked Momota and just thought he's got great and almost innocent personality. Great to learn so much about his story here, thank you.

@BenBeckmanBadminton Ай бұрын

thank you! so glad you liked it :)

@allowmetowander5511 Ай бұрын

no badminton player has it as hard as momota yet he pushed through, a true champion!

@BenBeckmanBadminton Ай бұрын

perseverance to the max!

@gayathrichandran8652 Ай бұрын

Great effort👌 A video I've been saving up to watch. You never disappoint.

@BenBeckmanBadminton Ай бұрын

Awesome, thank you! 🤗

@hareshnoka3439 Ай бұрын

Amazing work Ben....It was thrilling yet informative to watch. Great content keep it up👍

@BenBeckmanBadminton Ай бұрын

thanks :)

@reinartes7079 Ай бұрын

When I saw you scrolling down Reddit post, I thought I might see my comment being there, and it was. Quite surreal seeing my own comment in your video. I'm one of those who commented a lot when it comes to Momota since there were so many misinformation when it comes to him. So, I'm very happy how accurate and detailed this video is. Truly a wonderful tribute to a legend. Side note, I'm starting to feel Malaysia is just an unlucky place for Momota. His gambling incident was found out right after Malaysia Open. His accident happened right after Malaysia Masters. His worst defeat from Axelsen was in Malaysia Open. He lost his chance to play more in Thomas Cup after Japan lost to Malaysia team. Finally, the person whom he respected a lot, LCW, laughed behind his back.

@BenBeckmanBadminton Ай бұрын

nice spot haha. I wanted to use a badmintoncentral post actually but at the time it was down. Seems to be back up running again now though. Yeah Malaysia didn't hold too much fortune for Momota it must be said.

@lynnechee5758 Ай бұрын

Thank you Ben or this insightful masterpiece on Kento Momota. Well done! He went through so much in his journey for the game he loves so much. Such resilience. I salute him. He has my utmost respect. A true legend indeed! I got teary eyed at the end of the documentary. Lee Chong Wei the so called legend and friends mocking him is such a disgrace to Malaysia. all the best Momota! Be happy. There will never be another player like you.

@BenBeckmanBadminton Ай бұрын

Thank you so much for your kind words, I am glad you liked the video :)

@allfreedo13 Ай бұрын

Thank you Ben for made this video.. complete career of Momota with every details stories..

@BenBeckmanBadminton Ай бұрын

glad you liked it :)

@Harsha-lcw Ай бұрын

"What if?" . The end of the legendary arc of Bàdminton. I vow to be next. . Great video as always🙇. Thanks for the efforts you've put in this video.

@BenBeckmanBadminton Ай бұрын

Thank you. Glad you liked it.

@DS-pb1hh Ай бұрын

Thanks Ben! That was really nice and fitting! Keep on going!

@BenBeckmanBadminton Ай бұрын

Thanks! Will do!

@user-tv1zf7sg3h Ай бұрын

Great documentary! ❤ Happy retirement, Kento Momota. Although I haven't closely followed Momota's journey and have only watched a few of his matches, I deeply admire his skill and humility. I started watching badminton during the era of LCW and Lin Dan. Many initially regarded LCW as the humble one and Lin Dan as the arrogant one, but over time, my perspective shifted. Lin Dan's on-court confidence and celebrations, much like Lee Zii Jia's, can be seen by some as arrogance, but I view it as confidence. Although they are not Malaysian, I like Lin Dan and Chen Long more. When LZJ entered the scene and became the All England champion, I immediately became a hardcore fan. I'm glad that LZJ stays true to himself and has become an independent player with his own team, as this allows him to avoid the constant pressure from senior players.

@user-xj8it5yh8b Ай бұрын

E F F O R T!!! I appreciate it a lot. Thank you so much. We’ll surely miss Momota, Badminton world would never be the same again🥹😭

@BenBeckmanBadminton Ай бұрын

You're more than welcome. Glad u liked it

@Racketflash Ай бұрын

Nice video ben keep uploading more intresting badminton videos

@oliveab Ай бұрын

Thank you Ben for that! What a Rollercoaster ride! All wishes to Kento's new chapter.

@mathewsziba4573 Ай бұрын

This is an amazing video, well done Ben

@BenBeckmanBadminton Ай бұрын

Thank you, glad u liked it

@ABHISHEK-by8re Ай бұрын

Thanks a lot man for this video.Your hardwork and dedication towards this is really commendable👏👏👏👏 I wish Momota could comment in this video.

@BenBeckmanBadminton Ай бұрын

I'd absolutely love that

@pareshupadhyay297 Ай бұрын

Kento Mamota a great player and always will be remember for his comebacks and never giving up attitude. A very good researched video, I love the way you start it, follow with a beautiful journey of a super star and end it with you take on it . I will be waiting for your take on the journey of Lin Dan and Lee Chong Wei.

@snehsrivastava7286 Ай бұрын

A tragic hero, it is sad what happened to his carrier! But still he remains a legend. Great inspiration...

@Gladyswijart10 Ай бұрын

Great video as always. 👏🏻👏🏻 Kento Momota forever in our heart. trully Legend. His life like roller coaster. Thank you for ur hard work Ben. really enjoy this video. Everyone love momota ❤❤ Happy retirement Kento. 😢

@BenBeckmanBadminton Ай бұрын

so glad you liked it :)

@magnumcyclonex Ай бұрын

First things first, an upvote because this is truly the biggest, grandest, and possibly the most exhausting endeavor you put yourself through and accomplished for badminton fans like me, so I want to give you my deepest and most sincere gratitude for the tremendous time, energy, and heart you put into this project. Thank you Ben! And with that, I shall continue watching...

@BenBeckmanBadminton Ай бұрын

and how was the rest of it?

@magnumcyclonex Ай бұрын

@@BenBeckmanBadminton It was eye opening for me. I hadn't really followed badminton that closely in the mid 2010s so when I first heard about Momota, it was roughly around the time he was coming back from his ban. He played in the U.S (and I wish I knew about it because I would have considered traveling to watch it!) and was then on his way back up the ranks to number 1. I also had no idea about the Instagram stream that mocked Momota after his loss to Lee Zii Jia in the All England. I felt disgusted by it, and stand by your interpretation that it was done in distaste, even if it was meant to be a light hearted joke. It's been a day since I finished watching. The nearly 1 hour 20 min video you put out was fantastic. It went by so fast, and it was perfect to work on something like a hobby or do some chores while watching. From the brief self cameo, to the old and hard to find match footage, and to your overall exemplary storytelling capabilities, I'm going to sing your high praises for this project! I enjoyed the video a lot and I think it does justice to Momota. You really hammered home the point about Momota's preference in team events and his career came full circle as he drew it to a close. There is no question that the Momota we see today is one that has always been kind and giving, one full of gratitude, and selfless for his team and to the ones who support him. His humble demeanor is something rare in the sport, something we can all learn from. His is a story of what if's. His is a story of legendary status because while he did not achieve Olympic glory, he achieved many other feats, and struck gold in all of our badminton hearts.

@ED-yy1rl Ай бұрын

truly a tragic story of how a player with so much more to achieve got so abruptly stopped and his dreams shattered. Wishing you a happy retirement Kento Momota!

@jimw8615 Ай бұрын

Great research Ben! Always enjoy yr videos

@BenBeckmanBadminton Ай бұрын

thank you, glad u liked it

@johnhickton2922 Ай бұрын

Great video. Showed me a lot of things I didn't know before. Such a shame Momota had such bad luck.

@BenBeckmanBadminton Ай бұрын

Glad you enjoyed it and got something from it 😊

@cnvl1478 Ай бұрын

Great job, really enjoyed this one of my all time favourite badminton player!

@BenBeckmanBadminton Ай бұрын

glad you liked it :)

@raj24eev Ай бұрын

Ben, you are a true badminton fan, but one who's also got another gift- a passion for creating amazing content. I feel this is your best work so far. I had been following your posts as you worked on the video. Like all passion projects, it was not good enough for the creator and you were missing your deadlines trying to make it perfect and go back and that little bit extra.... Love your work! It's creators like you that make KZfaq KZfaq. Finally, I love Momota. And while i thought i was following his career even after the accident, it's only after watching the video till the very end that i realised how little i knew of his journey after that car crash. The lowest point of the video for me, emotionally, was LCW mocking KM. You have to have some next level EQ vacuum to feel like saying that about KM, after knowing everything that happened to him.... Anyways, credit to you for such a monumental effort

@BenBeckmanBadminton Ай бұрын

mate, I truly appreciate the kind comments :) you've made my day! I'll keep doing what I'm doing and hopefully you'll keep coming back for more

@diosdadomarkcaluyo9813 Ай бұрын

This video greately sums up KMs journey. Thank you Ben❤❤❤

@BenBeckmanBadminton Ай бұрын

You're so welcome! 😊

@howeezy Ай бұрын

Great storytelling Ben! I remember at the 2017 US International Series when Momota was making his comeback, I came up one round short of an opportunity to play against him. I would've loved to be on the opposing side of the absolutely beautiful badminton that he plays. But it was still awesome to see the technical skills and finesse of his game in a much smaller hall (compared to the Super Series venues). The way he breezed through that competition was just amazing.

@BenBeckmanBadminton Ай бұрын

That would have been a lovely opportunity to have played such a legend. Yeah I watched a few rounds of his from that tournament and he was absolutely cruising. Amazing stuff. Thanks for the kind words on the video

@kjlim3170 Ай бұрын

Thank you for making this video, I believe you have done a lot of research by watching and editing all KM videos for the past 10 years! I am impressed with his tenacity, having to go through all the medical treatment and physical pain despite not getting the result that he wanted and deserved. And I am extremely disappointed with lcw comments and his attitude towards KM... such a disgrace as everyone in Malaysia look up to him and treat him like a god.

@daaminawad9164 Ай бұрын

No room for improvement, just perfect video 🎩 off ben by far the best biography video i ever watched

@BenBeckmanBadminton Ай бұрын

Wow! Thank you so much for the kind words. Glad u liked it

@alexsawchernyuik5225 Ай бұрын

As a avid badminton player and badminton fan for almost 30 years. I believe both LCW and Kento had given much needed inspiration and joy for the whole badminton community. But I had to comment upon reading the comments section. I am from Malaysia as well and I do think LCW livestream could have been more considerate towards Kentos hardcore fans, however I do not believe there is any bad intention behind the video. (If you watch TBHs content you will know they have the purest of intention to bring entertainement.) And to Kento you will be my next inspiration in my journey recovering from epilepsy. Please continue to be yourself. You are such a positive role model follow closely. Truely mindset of a role model and champion. You always comeback stronger after each setbacks.

@dredd7 Ай бұрын

absolutely loved it, Ben. such passionate story telling and abt such top player.. sad that he cudnt end his career on a high like he deserved to !

@BenBeckmanBadminton Ай бұрын

so glad that came across :)

@alanng311 Ай бұрын

I hope Momota watch this incredible compilation of his career. Definitely a Greater Legend than LCW.

@gizmokaiba Ай бұрын

Great movie about an fantastic one of the greats) badmintonplayer and human. He was (is) special in many ways. Just an absolute pleasure to watch him play, the way he conducted himself, his skills, just amazing. And it shines trough how much he really loves badminton...He will be badly missed on the courts....

@BenBeckmanBadminton Ай бұрын

he will most certainly be missed...big time