KUALA LUMPUR – Despite a disappointing start to the day at the Malaysia Open, three doubles pairs brought a ray of sunshine for local fans, securing victories in their respective matches at the Axiata Arena in Bukit Jalil today.
In the men’s doubles, Aaron Chia-Soh Wooi Yik and Nur Izzuddin Rumsani-Goh Sze Fei, along with mixed doubles pair Chen Tang Jie-Toh Ee Wei, all clinched victories in the first round.
Aaron and Wooi Yik faced a tough challenge against world number 22 Danes Rasmus Kjaer-Frederik Sogaard, ultimately winning in three sets 20-22, 21-13, 21-13.
It was the first encounter between the two pairs, and Aaron acknowledged that the unfamiliarity initially posed challenges.
“We were not comfortable with their gameplay, but luckily, we slowly caught up to them. Then we got our rhythm and confidence back and managed to win the game,” said Aaron after the match.
Wooi Yik also admitted that the Danes were a dangerous pair to go up against, having held a 2-0 record against world number ones Liang Weikeng-Wang Chang from China.
As such, adopting a strategic approach was an important aspect of winning the game.
“They are not an easy pair and will be a dangerous duo in the future. Today was our first meeting, and the match was all about strategy; we won, but the next game against them will be tough,” added Wooi Yik.
Aaron-Wooi Yik are set to face teammates Nur Izzuddin-Sze Fei in the second round after the latter secured victory against Supak Jomkoh-Kittinupong Kedren from Thailand with a score of 21-17, 22-20 in a 39-minute encounter.
They expect it will be a challenging match as they have been training together every day.
“We know each other’s game well, but whoever enters the quarter-finals, we will still represent Malaysia,” said Aaron.
In the mixed doubles, Tang Jie and Ee Wei defeated French pair Thom Gicquel-Delphine Delrue in straight sets 21-17, 21-1 in a 47-minute match.
The world number nine Malaysians previously lost against the world number 11 Europeans.
“Today we were more focused to win this first tournament of the year, especially since it is at home.
“But we didn’t overthink it and just focused on victory,” said Tang Jie. – January 10, 2024