What caused Sze Fei-Izzuddin's downfall at Malaysia Masters?
KUALA LUMPUR: After their shock exit in the Malaysia Masters quarter-finals on Friday, fans were left wondering what happened to Goh Sze Fei-Nur Izzuddin Rumsani's game.
Looking back, the world No. 2 men's doubles felt that they were not consistent enough.
Sze Fei-Izzuddin failed again to land a World Tour title on home soil following an unexpected loss to compatriots and world No. 8 Man Wei Chong-Tee Kai Wun.
The high standard that saw them winfour World Tour titles — the Japan, China, Arctic and India Opens last year — was missing this time.
Sze Fei said they need to improve their consistency to be able to stay in the world top three.
"We have to focus on the Singapore and Indonesia Opens. Need to eat well, sleep well and train well," said Sze Fei.
Doing well in the Singapore Open, which begins on Tuesday, and Indonesia Open (June 3-8) will see them strengthen their world ranking or even overtake current Denmark's world No. 1 Kim Astrup-Anders Skaarup Rasmussen.
Izzuddin, taking the Malaysia Masters setback in stride, said the important thing is not to lose hope.
"Ups and downs are normal for us and our focus is to improve our performance. We have to remain confident and trust each other," he added.
Apart from consistency, Sze Fei-Izzuddin may also have to boost their physical strength and endurance to enhance their explosive playing style.
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