KUALA LUMPUR — Malaysia’s high-flying men’s doubles pair, Goh Sze Fei and Nur Izzuddin Rumsani, are closing in on the coveted world number one ranking after their landmark victory at the Super 750 India Open today.
The world number two duo delivered a sensational performance to defeat South Korea’s Kim Won-ho and Seo Seung-jae 21-15, 13-21, 21-16 in New Delhi, claiming the prestigious title.
The victory not only netted them US$70,300 (RM317,000) in prize money but also ended a 15-year title drought for Malaysian men’s doubles pairs at the tournament, with the last champions being Zakry Abdul Latif and Mohd Fairuzizuan Tazari in 2010.
Sze Fei and Izzuddin are now poised to challenge Denmark’s Kim Astrup and Anders Skaarup Rasmussen for the top spot.
“Performance is our number one priority, but if we do well, our ranking will certainly improve,” Izzuddin said when asked about the possibility of overtaking the Danes.
Reflecting on their success, Sze Fei emphasised the importance of bouncing back quickly after their disappointing first-round exit at last week’s Super 1000 Malaysia Open.
“The support from our coach (Teo Kok Siang) and our team has been crucial in overcoming last week’s struggles. I must also thank my partner (Izzuddin). We’re very happy to win this title,” Sze Fei said.
The duo have decided to skip the upcoming Super 500 Indonesia Masters but took the opportunity to send their best wishes to Indonesian badminton icons Muhammad Ahsan and Hendra Setiawan, who are set to retire after the tournament.
“Our idols are Hendra and Ahsan. Unfortunately, we won’t be competing in the Indonesia Masters, but we wish them the best and hope to meet them,” Izzuddin said.
Meanwhile, it remains uncertain whether the Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM) will consider Sze Fei and Izzuddin for the Badminton Asia Mixed Team Championships in China next month, a key qualifier for the Sudirman Cup in April. — January 19, 2025