Looking four-ward
PETALING JAYA: 'If possible, I want to see two all-Malaysian men's doubles semi-finals at the World Championships.'
That is the wish of world No. 2 Aaron Chia, who hopes that all four Malaysian pairs, including himself and partner Soh Wooi Yik, can make the most of the country's strong presence in the tournament to increase their chances of reaching the semi-finals.
Apart from Aaron and Wooi Yik, the men's doubles squad heading to Paris at the end of this month comprise world No. 3 Goh Sze Fei-Nur Izzuddin Rumsani, world No. 7 Man Wei Chong-Tee Kai Wun, and Macau Open champions Wan Arif Wan Junaidi-Yap Roy King, who secured their spot at the last minute.
Although it is seen as a challenging mission, Aaron, who etched his name in history by winning the 2022 world title with Wooi Yik, believes it is far from impossible given that Malaysia now have among the strongest men's doubles line-ups in the world.
If the dream of an all-Malaysian final comes true, the national men's doubles camp will sweep all the medals, including the two bronzes for the losing semi-finalists, as well as the coveted silver and gold.
'I think the men's doubles challenge will not be easy. As you know, Seo Seung-jae-Kim Won-ho were only paired a few months ago and they are already the world No. 1. They are the toughest pair for us.
'Then there are Wei Chong and Kai Wun, and I understand Arif and Roy King have also qualified, so facing our own compatriots might be even tougher.
'I think it would be great if all the semi-final spots are taken by Malaysians. I mean, if all four pairs make it to the last four, we can start preparing to celebrate early (as the title would already be in our hands),' said Aaron when met at Academy Badminton Malaysia (ABM) Bukit Kiara yesterday.
Ironically, when Aaron-Wooi Yik became Malaysia's first badminton world champions three years ago, the country also had four representatives in the men's doubles event.
However, the campaigns of the other three pairs ended early, with Teo Ee Yi-Ong Yew Sin and Goh V Shem-Tan Wee Kiong bowing out in the second round, while Sze Fei-Izzuddin exited in the third round.
The draw for the World Championships will be conducted next Wednesday.
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