As we know, the 2019 European Games are fast approaching, with the opening ceremony taking place 21st June. However, the qualification will be decided by the BWF World Ranking lists of the 26th March. That gives players less than two months to fight for their spot at the games. 

Who will be going to Minsk?

In the Men’s Singles, Collins Valentine Filimon of Romania who is currently ranked 188, is just one ranking spot away from qualification behind Christian Savin of Moldova.

Filimon had a promising 2018, with highlights being his closely fought 2nd round exit against England’s Toby Penty in the SaarLorLux Open, a semi-final finish at the Hatzor International and a great 3 game display in the 2nd round of the European Championships against Brice Leverdez.

It is these kind of performances Filimon will need to emulate in the coming weeks in order to creep into a qualification spot. But his positivity is clear with a simple quote on his Instagram

-Just believe in your dreams

We are stronger than ever

Just two ranking spots away from qualification are Hungarian Women’s Doubles pair Nikoletta Bukoviczki and Daniella Gonda, ranked 85.
 

In 2018, the pair’s consistent form at International Series events, reaching quarter-finals, semi-finals and even a final at the Egypt International greatly aided their campaign for qualification. However, with a comparatively poor start to 2019, they need to re-find this form. If they do, they should be able to book tickets for Minsk.