KUALA LUMPUR – Malaysia’s Chen Tang Jie and Toh Ee Wei fell short of glory as they settled for the runners-up spot at the prestigious US$2.5 million (RM11.1 million) World Tour Finals in Hangzhou.
The world number eight mixed doubles pair displayed grit and determination but were ultimately outclassed 21-18, 14-21, 21-17 by reigning Olympic champions and two-time defending titleholders Zheng Si Wei and Huang Yaqiong of China.
Heading into the final today, Tang Jie and Ee Wei had never won a single game in their four previous meetings against the formidable Chinese duo.
For Si Wei and Yaqiong, the victory marks a fitting farewell as this was their final appearance together following Si Wei’s retirement announcement last month.
The Chinese pair’s triumph earned them a cool US$210,000 (RM935,000) prize purse, while Tang Jie and Ee Wei took home US$100,000 (RM445,000) – still a significant achievement for the Malaysian duo, who have been enjoying a great run of form.
“We’re a little disappointed because we really wanted to win,” said Tang Jie.
“However, it is also a special moment for us because our opponents are mixed doubles legends, and we feel happy and proud that their final match together was against us.”
Despite a valiant effort, the Malaysian pair struggled at key moments.
“We were rushing a little in trying to make our shots today. At moments, it worked, but it wasn’t good enough,” Tang Jie reflected.
“They were more consistent in winning the crucial points. This is something we need to learn to improve our game,” Ee Wei added.
Despite the loss, the pair’s performance throughout the tournament signals their growing stature as a world-class pair.
“Before this, we struggled a lot, but I’m happy we overcame our challenges to achieve this breakthrough,” said Ee Wei.
“It bodes well for our future as we aim to get our game to a higher level.” — December 15, 2024