The Men’s Singles event opened the IBF World Championships 2025 today in Hong Kong, with Sweden’s Jesper Svensson leading the field after an impressive performance on the demanding 46-foot pattern.
But now the attention shifts to tomorrow’s Women’s Singles
qualification.
Back in 2023 IBF World Championships, Women's
Singles event belonged to Malaysia’s Natasha Roslan.
In Kuwait, Roslan defeated Sin Li Jane 2-1 in all-Malaysian final to
secure the Singles gold medal.
Before women's competition starts tomorrow in Hong Kong, BowlingLife sat down with Roslan to talk about pressure, pride, team chemistry, and the challenge of trying to win the world title again.
“I’m Not Going There to Defend Anything"
Heading back to the World Championships as the reigning Singles champion might intimidate most players. But Malaysia's National Team brightest star approaches it differently.
“I’m feeling excited and grateful to be heading back as the defending champion. Of course there’s pressure, but I try to use it as motivation instead of letting it weigh me down. I’m focusing on staying present and doing my job, shot by shot. I’m not going there to defend anything. I’m going there to earn it again. If I trust my training and stick to my process, I believe the results will follow.”
About the Honour Wearing National Jersey
Winning the Singles title in 2023 was a huge acomplishment not only for Roslan, but for the whole Malaysia. But when she talks about the possibility of winning again, she doesn’t focus on legacy or records. For her, it’s about honour, responsibility, and what her performance can mean for the next generation.
“Winning another world title for Malaysia would mean so much to me," Roslan said. "Wearing the national jersey alone is already an honour, but to bring home another title would be incredibly special. More than anything, I hope it shows younger athletes in Malaysia that we compete at the highest level. If my journey can inspire even one person to believe a little more in themselves, that would already make it worth it."
Tough Challenge Ahead
Winning a medal this year won’t be easy - the women’s field has almost doubled since 2023. With 22 countries competing, there will be more playing styles, more depth, and a lot more pressure. Roslan doesn’t shy away from that. She knows a tougher field also makes any success feel that much bigger.
“With 22 countries competing this year, the field is definitely going to be stronger but I think that’s a good thing. More countries means more styles, and a lot more to adapt to on the lanes. It’s going to be challenging, but also really exciting. The atmosphere will definitely be more intense, and I’m looking forward to being part of that.”
The Biggest Strength
Malaysia’s women’s roster has shown remarkable consistency in recent years. The core remains intact, and new additions have strengthened not only depth but energy and hunger for the medals. Natasha sees that as a major advantage.
“Our team chemistry is one of our biggest strengths. We know each other well and we’ve been through a lot together… that makes a difference when the pressure kicks in," Roslan said. "The new additions have brought fresh energy and hunger, which pushes all of us to keep growing. I think we have a good mix of experience and new fire this year, and that balance is important.”
Fast Transition Require Fast Decisions
This year’s oil pattern promises quick changes. Malaysia’s coaches have emphasized the importance of adjustment and patience - two elements that suit Roslan’s game well.
“The coaches pointed out that the oil pattern will change pretty quickly, so
making the right adjustments at the right time will be key. It’ll test
patience and decision-making, for sure. Personally, I think my strength is
being calm under pressure and staying present. At the end of the day, it’s all
about trusting the process and making good decisions.”
The Women’s Singles qualifying will feature two squads, followed by Singles
Round 2, semifinals and finals for both divisions on Thursday, November 27.
Women’s Doubles qualifying is scheduled for November 28, and the men will bowl
on November 29. All final rounds for both divisions will be held on November
30.
Men’s Trios is scheduled for December 1, followed by Women’s Trios on December
2. Team of Five qualifying and Round 2 for both men and women will be held on
December 3.
The semifinals and finals for Trios and Team of Five
will be played in an arena setting at Queen Elizabeth Stadium in Wanchai on
December 4 and 5.
All information, results and livestream links for the IBF World Championships 2025 can be found at tournaments.bowlinglife.eu.
Official Schedule – IBF World Championships 2025
Wednesday, November 26
Women’s Singles QualifyingThursday, November 27
Men and Women Singles Round 2Men and Women Singles Semifinals
Men and Women Singles Finals
Friday, November 28
Women’s Doubles QualifyingSaturday, November 29
Men’s Doubles QualifyingSunday, November 30
Men and Women Doubles Round 2Men and Women Doubles Semifinals
Men and Women Doubles Finals
Monday, December 1
Men’s Trios QualifyingMen’s Trios Round 2
Tuesday, December 2
Women’s Trios QualifyingWomen’s Trios Round 2
Wednesday, December 3
Men and Women Team of Five QualifyingMen and Women Team of Five Round 2
Thursday, December 4 – Queen Elizabeth Stadium, Wanchai
Men and Women Trios Semifinals and FinalsFriday, December 5 – Queen Elizabeth Stadium, Wanchai
Men and Women Team of Five Semifinals and FinalsVictory Banquet at Kowloon Shangri-La Hotel
