In the world of competitive badminton, few stories capture the human spirit like the tale of a comeback. The thrilling return of Malaysia’s top mixed doubles pair, Chen Tang Jie and Toh Ee Wei, to the 2025 Singapore Open is not just about winning matches—it’s about resilience, trust, and rediscovering the magic that once made them one of the most promising duos on the world stage. Their journey has been filled with highs, lows, and now, a resounding return that’s redefined their legacy.
The Rise of a Dynamic Duo
Before their remarkable comeback, Chen Tang Jie and Toh Ee Wei were already making waves in the international badminton circuit. Their partnership was forged in late 2022 under the guidance of the Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM). The decision to pair them was strategic: Tang Jie, with his court coverage and quick reflexes, complemented Ee Wei’s precision and tactical awareness.
By mid-2023, their chemistry was undeniable. They began climbing the BWF World Rankings rapidly, defeating established pairs from China, Indonesia, and Japan. Their most notable early achievement came in the 2023 Korea Open, where they stunned the world by clinching the silver medal after a series of sensational performances. Analysts and fans alike began calling them the next big hope for Malaysia in mixed doubles.
But every ascent comes with its own set of challenges.
Cracks Beneath the Surface
Success often breeds pressure. Following a string of impressive tournament runs in 2023, including a semi-final appearance at the Hong Kong Open and a quarterfinal finish in the BWF World Championships, expectations mounted. The Olympic qualification period loomed, and the duo was under constant scrutiny.
Behind the scenes, subtle cracks began to appear. Communication breakdowns during key moments in matches, contrasting training approaches, and growing mental fatigue began to affect their synergy. By early 2024, a series of early tournament exits—including a disappointing run in the All England Open—raised eyebrows.
Speculation in local media intensified. Were they simply out of form? Or was something deeper unfolding?
The Split Nobody Wanted
In May 2024, BAM made a surprising announcement: Tang Jie and Ee Wei would be temporarily split. Officially, the statement mentioned the need to “explore new combinations and optimize the team’s Olympic chances.” However, insiders revealed a different story—one of mounting tension between the two.
Fans were devastated. Social media was flooded with messages urging BAM to reconsider. Many pointed out that despite their recent struggles, Tang Jie and Ee Wei remained Malaysia’s best hope for a mixed doubles medal at the upcoming Paris Olympics.
But the decision stood. Tang Jie was paired with a young women’s doubles specialist, while Ee Wei began training alongside a junior partner. The results were underwhelming. Neither new pairing managed to progress beyond the Round of 16 in major tournaments.
By the end of 2024, BAM’s gamble had failed—and the door for a reunion slowly creaked open.
The Healing Process
What followed was a period of reflection for both players. Away from each other, they began to understand the significance of their partnership—not just on the court, but emotionally and professionally. Tang Jie, in an interview with a Malaysian sports outlet, said:
“We were chasing success so fast that we forgot why we started. We forgot the joy of playing together.”
Similarly, Ee Wei took to Instagram with a cryptic post that read: “Sometimes, space is what brings people closer.”
In December 2024, they met privately—without coaches, media, or BAM officials. Over coffee and candid conversations, they revisited their highs and lows, ultimately deciding to give it another shot.
Their return was announced in early 2025. The Singapore Open would mark their first tournament back together in nearly eight months.
The Build-Up to Singapore
The 2025 Singapore Open wasn’t just another Super 500 event. For Tang Jie and Ee Wei, it symbolized redemption, revival, and reinvention.
In the weeks leading up to the tournament, the duo trained intensively at the Malaysian National Sports Complex in Bukit Jalil. Videos of their training sessions went viral—especially clips of them smiling, laughing, and seemingly enjoying their game again.
Their new coach, Indonesian legend Nova Widianto, emphasized mental conditioning alongside tactical drills.
“They don’t need to become different players,” Nova said. “They just need to rediscover the bond that once made them special.”
The draw was tough. Seeded outside the top eight, they were expected to face several top-tier opponents early on.
But the badminton world loves an underdog—and Tang Jie and Ee Wei were ready to deliver.
Making a Statement
Their first match at the Singapore Open was against the American pair Presley Smith and Jennie Gai. Many anticipated a tight contest. But the Malaysians had other ideas.
They stormed the court with renewed energy, winning 21-10, 21-13. Tang Jie’s smashes were clinical, and Ee Wei’s net play was flawless. The crowd, which included a large Malaysian contingent, erupted with every point.
In the post-match interview, Ee Wei remarked:
“We didn’t come here to prove a point to anyone. We just wanted to play our badminton.”
Their next match was against the Japanese duo Yuta Watanabe and Arisa Higashino, ranked No. 4 in the world. In a three-game thriller that lasted over an hour, Tang Jie and Ee Wei emerged victorious: 21-19, 17-21, 21-18.
It was, without doubt, one of the best matches of the tournament.
Quarterfinal Brilliance and Semifinal Showdown
The quarterfinal match against Korea’s Seo Seung Jae and Chae Yu Jung tested their physical endurance and mental resilience. Down a game and trailing 10-16 in the second, the Malaysians mounted an improbable comeback, winning the second game 23-21 and cruising through the third 21-14.
The semifinal clash was a dream scenario: facing Zheng Si Wei and Huang Ya Qiong of China, the reigning world champions and the very pair that defeated them in the World Tour Finals back in 2023.
Though Tang Jie and Ee Wei ultimately lost in straight games—19-21, 18-21—the match was fiercely competitive. Spectators witnessed exhilarating rallies, spectacular dives, and moments of vintage brilliance.
While they didn’t reach the final, the crowd gave them a standing ovation. For many, it felt like the pair had already won.
More Than Just a Comeback
The impact of their Singapore Open performance extended beyond the tournament itself. Sponsorships came knocking. Local and international media outlets celebrated their return. Their story became an example for aspiring athletes: of perseverance, humility, and the value of second chances.
Tang Jie and Ee Wei were soon reinstated into Malaysia’s Road to Gold (RTG) Olympic program. The confidence shown by BAM symbolized not just administrative support but national belief.
They moved up six places in the world rankings and received invitations to the Indonesia Open, Thailand Open, and Australian Open, all of which are critical for Olympic qualification.
Lessons Learned and New Goals
In exclusive interviews following their Singapore Open campaign, the duo opened up about the lessons they had learned.
Tang Jie: “You can’t rush trust. It grows over time and needs constant attention. That’s what we missed before.”
Ee Wei: “We now talk more, not just about matches, but life. We’re stronger because we understand each other better.”
They also spoke about introducing new training routines—incorporating mindfulness, visualization, and even weekly sessions with a sports psychologist.
Their new goal? A top-four finish in the BWF World Championships later this year—and a podium finish at the 2026 Asian Games.
Fan Power and the Role of Support
Throughout their journey, the support of fans played a vital role. From trending hashtags like #BringBackTangWei during their separation to thousands of congratulatory messages after each Singapore Open victory, the badminton community rallied around them.
The duo has also used their platform to mentor younger shuttlers and participate in local outreach programs.
Their message is clear: success is sweeter when shared, and setbacks can be springboards to greater things.
The Light That Never Went Out
Triumphant comebacks aren’t born out of luck—they are forged in adversity. The story of Chen Tang Jie and Toh Ee Wei is not just about badminton. It’s about finding your way back when the path seems lost. It’s about choosing to try again, even when failure feels imminent.
In Singapore, they didn’t just return to the court. They returned to themselves.
As their rackets swing again with rhythm and purpose, one thing is certain: the best of Tang Jie and Ee Wei is yet to come.
Also Read:
