We spoke to rising English double star Chris Adcock about his ambitions at the upcoming European Championships in Sweden, his partnership with Imogen Bankier and the difficulty to play two categories.

BADMINTON EUROPE: Chris, what would you like to achieve in Karlskrona?

Chris Adcock: I’m aiming for a medal for sure, hopefully two, one in mixed and men’s doubles. 

BADMINTON EUROPE: What would a European title mean to you?

Adcock: A European title would mean the world. There are some great players involved in the tournament so would it be amazing to achieve a title win. It would be great to win a European title in the same year as I won my first English National title.

BADMINTON EUROPE: Did Team England have special preparation for the Europeans?

Adcock: We always prepare the best we can for all major events. So, essentially yes, we gave special preparation, but it’s the same special preparation we give every tournament. We train hard, practice every skill and keep our fitness in top form, as well a analysing our opponents playing styles so we put ourselves in the best possible position to beat them.

BADMINTON EUROPE: Who do you see as your main contenders in the mixed doubles in Sweden?

Adcock: Both Danish pairs are very strong competitors and you are always guaranteed a hard game playing them. However on the day, many elements come into play such as how well a player has recovered from a previous game, any potential injuries which affect form, drift in the hall, player’s concentration and more.  So taking these factors into consideration, anything can happen. 

BADMINTON EUROPE: Can you describe how your mixed partnership with Imogen is working?

Adcock: Imogen and I gel very well on court. Our playing style works very effectively together on court.  Imogen is superb at net shots and I try my best to smash from the rear of the court. I think it’s a mixed partnership which players try to find and I’m glad I have found a partner who I work so well with. We both love attacking and move well on court which is great for us.  It’s a great feeling to win a rally after leading the attack.

BADMINTON EUROPE: You are playing men’s doubles as well as mixed.  How tough is it to switch between these two categories?

Adcock: My focus is spilt 50/50 between both disciplines and I give them both equal attention. I have played both events throughout my career and I really enjoy the challenge of having different styles and tactics of play as well as different opponents. I believe playing two events ultimately makes me a better badminton player.

Thanks for the interview.

Photo by BadmintonPhoto