KUALA LUMPUR — National men’s doubles pair Man Wei Chong and Tee Kai Wun are determined to avoid costly mistakes as they prepare for tomorrow’s semi-finals at the Super 1000 Malaysia Open.
The world number 14 duo delivered a commanding performance in the quarter-finals today, defeating French brothers Christo and Toma Junior Popov in straight games, 21-15, 21-11, in just 31 minutes at the Axiata Arena in Bukit Jalil.
With their sights set on the final, Wei Chong and Kai Wun are focused on raising their game as they face China’s world number 18, Chen Bo Yang and Liu Yi, in the semi-finals next.
“I’m satisfied with our preparation and how we played today. Hopefully, we can perform even better tomorrow,” Wei Chong said during the post-match interview.
“Our level of play has definitely improved compared to before. We aim to maintain this form in the next match,” he added.
Kai Wun echoed his partner’s sentiments, emphasising the need for precision against their Chinese opponents.
“We must avoid silly mistakes, as Bo Yang and Liu Yi are the strongest pair in this competition so far. They’re fast and powerful on court, so we need to be well-prepared tomorrow.”
Notably, this is the first time Wei Chong and Kai Wun have progressed beyond the second round at the Malaysian Open since their debut in 2022.
Meanwhile, independents Ong Yew Sin and Teo Ee Yi bowed out in the quarter-finals after going down 26-24, 21-15 to India’s world number three, Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty.
Reflecting on the match, Yew Sin said: “Their smashes were harder, and they maintained better control and consistency throughout. However, we’re proud of our performances at this year’s Malaysia Open, as we’ve shown consistency.”
Despite their exit, the world number 24 Malaysians remain optimistic about their future.
“We’re getting older, but that won’t stop us. Our goal is to keep competing at a high level and aim for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics,” Yew Sin added.
Ong and Teo will next compete in the India Open, scheduled to take place from January 14 to 19. — January 10, 2025