KUALA LUMPUR — Goh Sze Fei and Nur Izzuddin Rumsani have dismissed rumours about rejoining the Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM) and confirmed that they will continue to compete as independent players with their coach, Teo Kok Siang.
The men’s doubles duo, who reached the final of the Japan Open on Sunday, took to Instagram to clarify their stance after rumours swirled about them considering a return to the national setup.
“We wish to clarify that we are happy with our status as a professional pair, and reaching the Japan Open final has further strengthened our confidence and drive to continue improving under the guidance of our coach, Kok Siang,” said Sze Fei.
He added that their relationship with BAM remains on good terms, but firmly denied any talk of rejoining the national body.
“Our relationship with BAM remains great, and we always appreciate BAM for the support shown to us throughout our stints with them.
“Hope this can stop the untrue rumours out there,” he wrote.
This comes just a day after reports claimed that Sze Fei and Izzuddin had approached BAM to explore a potential return, just 10 months after leaving the national setup.
According to these reports, the arrival of Indonesian coach Herry IP was seen as a key reason for their likely u-turn.
However, when contacted, a member of BAM’s top management dismissed the reports, saying the national body was unaware of any such move.
“We’re not aware of them wanting to return,” the official told Scoop.
Sze Fei and Izzuddin, today lost their world No. 1 ranking to South Korea’s Kim Won Ho and Seo Seung Jae following their defeat to the Koreans in the Japan Open final.
Having slipped down to No. 3, they now shift their focus to the China Open, where they will begin their title defence against South Korea’s Kang Min Hyuk and Ki Dong Ju in the first round tomorrow. — July 22, 2025