Badminton News: Indonesia’s Academy of Badminton Malaysia (ABM) doubles coaching director Rexy Mainaky has said that the mixed doubles pair, who gave Malaysia their first points in all three matches of the Sudirman Cup so far has played a key role in helping Malaysia top Group C.

On Wednesday, Malaysia recorded their third consecutive victory in Suzhou, China, beating Taiwan 4-1. Malaysia previously beat Australia and India 5-0 in the first two group matches.

World number 8 in mixed doubles Goh Soon Huat/Shevon Lai played the first two matches, while world number 22 Chen Tang Jie/Toh Ee Wei faced Taiwan.

According to Rexy Mainaky, giving away the first points from all three matches eased the pressure on the best remaining players, including men’s singles world number 8 Lee Zii Jia, men’s doubles world champions Aaron Chia-Soh Wooi Yik and Ong Yew Sin Teo. Ee Yi.

Ee Yi, in a post-match interview with the Badminton World Federation, said, “Our teammates gave us great motivation. Tang Jie-Ee Wei took the pressure off by winning the first match.”

Rexy Mainaky, when contacted by Timesport, stressed that no player is superior to another but agreed that mixed doubles played a very important role in boosting team morale.

“I wouldn’t call them heroes. Every player on the team is a hero. Everyone’s efforts count. But I agree, winning the first point in the series takes the pressure off the others, allowing them to play their best.”

“I thank everyone. The team spirit is very high and today we came top of Group C thanks to the efforts of this team. I also want to thank God for bringing this team together,” said said Rexy.

As group winners, Malaysia will advance to the quarter-finals as one of four seeded teams. They will be joined in the last eight by Taiwan, who also beat India (4-1) and Australia (5-0) in their first two matches.

A new draw for the quarter-finals will be made on Thursday evening (18/5) after the end of all group matches.

Since the start of the tournament in 1989, Malaysia have only reached the semi-finals twice (2009 and 2021).

“I hope the players keep fighting hard, for each other and for the team. I also want them to believe in their hearts that they can do more than just achieve goals.” , added Rexy.

Tags: rexy mainaky, Sudirman Cup 2023