Kien Keat dares Aaron-Wooi Yik to smash his five-title record
The world No. 3 have been in red-hot form, winning three of their last four tournaments.
Aaron-Wooi Yik have triumphed at the Badminton Asia Championships (BAC), Thailand Open and most recently the Singapore Open. Their only setback came in the Malaysia Masters two weeks ago, where they finished runners-up to compatriots Man Wei Chong-Tee Kai Wun.
Kien Keat, who formed a world No. 1 partnership with Tan Boon Heong, holds the Malaysian record for most men's doubles titles in a calendar year — five in 2007.
But with half the World Tour season still to go, Aaron-Wooi Yik are on course to surpass that.
However, Kien Keat warned that staying sharp mentally and maintaining their hunger would be key.
"This is their best run since becoming world champions in 2022," said Kien Keat.
"But they must not get comfortable. Winning one or two titles should never be enough. They need to keep their mindset right if they want to win more."
He added that the road ahead will only get tougher.
"Opponents are now studying their game. The challenge will intensify, and they must stay a step ahead."
Kien Keat credited the pair's improved mental strength and tactical clarity to the arrival of coach Herry IP in February.
"They used to hesitate in matches, but Herry has clearly made a difference," he said.
"You can see their confidence growing. They now stick to their gameplan, even under pressure, and that's a huge step forward."
Aaron-Wooi Yik initially struggled on the World Tour, losing six consecutive finals before breaking through at the Super 750 Denmark Open in 2023.
They added the Super 300 Korea Open last year.
Now on a roll, they will be eyeing another strong showing at this week's Super 1000 Indonesia Open.
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