Malaysia’s Sudirman Cup 2025 campaign roared into life with a commanding 5-0 victory over an under-strength France, and at the heart of that triumph was the stellar debut of Goh Sze Fei and Nur Izzuddin Rumsani. Making their first-ever appearance in the prestigious mixed team championship, the world No. 2 pair seized the spotlight, setting the tone for a dominant Malaysian performance.
This opening Group C tie, held at the Xiamen Olympic Sports Center in China, saw the Malaysian contingent display a mixture of poise, power, and precision, while their opponents from France struggled without several key players. For Sze Fei and Izzuddin, the occasion was more than just another match—it was the realization of a dream nurtured over years of dedication.
Making Their Mark on Debut
Although Sze Fei and Izzuddin are no strangers to team competitions—having represented Malaysia in three successive Thomas Cup campaigns (2020, 2022, and 2024)—this was their first outing at the Sudirman Cup, a mixed team format where excellence across all five disciplines is key.
From the outset, the independent duo showed no signs of nerves. They overwhelmed France’s Mael Cattoen and Lucas Renoir with a masterclass of aggressive front-court interceptions, thunderous smashes, and seamless communication. Wrapping up the men’s doubles in just under 30 minutes with a 21-11, 21-9 scoreline, Sze Fei and Izzuddin put Malaysia firmly on the front foot.
Their energetic start set the tone for the rest of the tie and sent a clear signal to Malaysia’s rivals: this squad, bolstered by seasoned campaigners and ambitious debutants, means business.
A Well-Orchestrated Team Effort
Following the explosive opening by Sze Fei-Izzuddin, Malaysia’s women’s singles representative, Goh Jin Wei, took to the court against France’s Leonice Huet. Jin Wei, a former World Junior Champion and Youth Olympic gold medalist, showed her growing maturity with a composed performance, winning 21-10, 21-19.
Although Huet mounted a brief resurgence in the second game, Jin Wei’s court craft and defensive resilience were too much for her opponent to handle. With Malaysia now 2-0 up, the pressure shifted to the men’s singles tie where Leong Jun Hao faced Arnaud Merkle.
Jun Hao, who has battled injuries and stiff competition over the years, seized his opportunity with both hands. In a hard-fought contest, he displayed both grit and guile to edge Merkle 22-20, 21-19, delivering the third and decisive point that secured Malaysia’s overall victory.
Even though the mixed doubles and women’s doubles were still scheduled to play, Malaysia had already bagged the tie at 3-0.
The Remaining Rubbers Statement of Depth
In the remaining matches, Malaysia continued to stamp their authority. In the mixed doubles, Chen Tang Jie and Toh Ee Wei—a relatively new pairing but one that has been steadily rising—displayed sharp instincts and synchronization to outclass their French counterparts 21-14, 21-15.
Meanwhile, in the women’s doubles, national stars Pearly Tan and M. Thinaah, ranked world No. 5, barely broke a sweat as they closed out the tie with a 21-8, 21-10 demolition. Their relentless attacking play and solid defense left little doubt about Malaysia’s ambitions at this year’s tournament.
The final 5-0 scoreline was not just a reflection of France’s weakened squad but also a testament to Malaysia’s growing depth across all disciplines.
France’s Struggles Amplified
France, to their credit, showed flashes of resistance but were severely hampered by the absence of key players. Missing stars like Alex Lanier, the Popov brothers (Toma Junior and Christo), and mixed doubles heavyweights Thom Gicquel and Delphine Delrue, the European side fielded a youthful and inexperienced team.
Without their usual firepower, the French team found it difficult to match Malaysia’s pace and precision. However, their young squad can take heart from the experience gained, which could serve them well in future tournaments.
Sze Fei-Izzuddin’s Journey to This Moment
For Sze Fei and Izzuddin, this debut performance carried a deeper significance. After years of ups and downs—including a brief split in 2022 before reuniting stronger than ever—their journey has been one of perseverance.
The duo’s recent rise to world No. 2 is no accident. A combination of raw power, tactical nous, and improved mental toughness, honed under the guidance of national men’s doubles coach Herry IP and through fruitful training camps, has seen them consistently challenge the world’s best.
Their chemistry on the court was on full display against France. With Izzuddin controlling the front court with deft touches and intercepts, and Sze Fei unleashing his powerful smashes from the back, they formed an almost unbreakable unit.
“Playing for Malaysia at the Sudirman Cup is a proud moment for us,” said Izzuddin after the match. “We wanted to make a strong start not just for ourselves, but for the entire team.”
A Symbol of Malaysia’s Renewed Hopes
Malaysia’s Sudirman Cup history is storied but bittersweet. Despite producing world-class players over the decades, the nation has yet to lift the coveted trophy. Their best finish remains a runner-up position in 2009.
This latest campaign, however, feels different. With a balanced squad boasting proven performers and hungry newcomers, Malaysia is seen as a legitimate contender for at least a semi-final berth—and perhaps more.
The emphatic win over France will certainly boost morale ahead of tougher challenges in Group C, which also features India and Australia.
Tougher Tests Await
Malaysia’s next fixture will see them lock horns with India, who pose a much sterner test. With players like P.V. Sindhu, Satwiksairaj Rankireddy-Chirag Shetty, and a strong doubles setup, India are eyeing a deep run themselves.
Malaysia will need to be at their absolute best, with tactical acumen, mental fortitude, and team cohesion all playing crucial roles. Matches like these will not only test Malaysia’s skill but also their strategic flexibility—particularly in doubles where matchups can often decide the tie.
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