KUALA LUMPUR — Rexy Mainaky faces a substantial task ahead as his protégés, Aaron Chia and Soh Wooi Yik, fell short of expectations in their bid to defend their Badminton World Championships title.
This after the world number four pair failed to defend their title last night after bowing out to South Korea’s Kang Min Hyuk-Seo Seung Jae in the semis in straight sets, 23-21, 21-13 at the Royal Arena in Copenhagen, Denmark.
As last year’s world title win remains the only victory in Aaron-Wooi Yik’s trophy cabinet, Rexy who is also the Akademi Badminton Malaysia (ABM) doubles coaching director felt mixed over the pair’s latest showing.
Speaking to Scoop, he however said Wooi Yik’s performance on the court last night fell below expectations.
“Wooi Yik’s performance was not up to par today (last night) as he seemed a bit tense and had a complicated mindset.
“It appears that Aaron displayed a better understanding of the game,” he said when contacted.
During the post-match interview with Badminton World Federation (BWF), Aaron highlighted the need for strategic composure in high-stakes matches.
“Our opponents performed well and their victory in the first set boosted their confidence to give their all in the second set.
“During the first set, we had a four-point lead and we should learn to keep ourselves calm and focus more on holding our lead in the future,” he said.
While always recognising their potential, Rexy also conceded that the world number four pair needs to intensify and refine their efforts after observing their recent performances.
“So this shall be my homework when we return home, which I have got to work harder on improving their gameplay.
“Upon our return, refining their gameplay will be a priority on my agenda… a challenge I intend to take on with increased vigour,” the Indonesian former world champion said. — August 27, 2023