The 2025 BWF World Championships in Paris is about to witness a thrilling all-Malaysian showdown in the men’s doubles category, as Aaron Chia and Soh Wooi Yik powered their way into the round of 16 on Wednesday.
The world No. 2 pair, who entered the tournament as one of the strong favorites for the title, showed their class by defeating Scotland’s twin brothers Christopher and Matthew Grimley in straight games, 21-15, 21-16, at the Adidas Arena. The commanding performance further underlined why Aaron and Wooi Yik remain one of Malaysia’s best hopes for a medal in Paris.
Returning to Paris with Fond Memories
Speaking after the win, Aaron expressed his delight at competing again in the French capital — a city that already holds a special place in his career. Together with Wooi Yik, he clinched an Olympic bronze medal here in 2024, and stepping back onto the same stage has reignited positive emotions.
“We’re definitely happy to be back in Paris. Playing here again brings back a lot of good memories, so it feels special to perform at this arena,” Aaron told the Badminton World Federation (BWF).
He added that the opening-round victory gave them the confidence boost they needed. “The Grimley brothers came at us with high speed, especially since they had already played a first-round match and adapted to the conditions faster. But the key today was how we managed the situation. Whether leading or trailing, we stayed focused, kept our discipline, and that made all the difference.”
All-Malaysian Battle Awaits
With their latest triumph, Aaron and Wooi Yik will now face fellow Malaysians Arif Junaidi and Yap Roy King, ranked world No. 22, in what promises to be a captivating all-Malaysian round of 16 clash. The matchup guarantees Malaysia at least one spot in the quarterfinals, and anticipation is already building among fans.
Adding to the excitement is Aaron’s light-hearted remark before leaving for Paris. He had jokingly said that if the younger pair of Arif–Roy King made it to the last 16, he and Wooi Yik would “whack them.” Now that the showdown is set, the banter has added spice to what could be one of the tournament’s most entertaining encounters.
A Clash of Experience vs. Rising Stars
Aaron and Wooi Yik, who famously became world champions in 2022, looked in peak form against the Grimleys, controlling the rallies and never allowing their opponents a real chance to dictate play. Their experience, composure, and tactical discipline once again stood out.
However, they will need to bring the same level of intensity against the fearless challenge of Arif and Roy King. The younger duo have been making waves on the international circuit and recently claimed the Macau Open title, a result that highlighted their rapid rise in world badminton.
Earlier in the day, Arif–Roy King proved their growing credentials by pulling off a major upset against Thailand’s world No. 12 pair, Kittinupong Kedren and Dechapol Puavaranukroh, winning 21-13, 21-17 in impressive fashion. That result not only boosted their confidence but also set the stage for a generational clash of Malaysian badminton.
Malaysia’s Medal Hopes Strengthened
For Malaysian fans, the upcoming last-16 duel is both exciting and reassuring, as it guarantees the nation a place in the quarterfinals. With Aaron–Wooi Yik leading the charge and Arif–Roy King quickly emerging as potential stars, Malaysia’s depth in men’s doubles looks stronger than ever heading into the later stages of the World Championships.
As the Paris tournament progresses, all eyes will be on this battle between Malaysia’s seasoned world champions and the country’s next generation of challengers. One thing is certain — Malaysian badminton is in for a fiery showdown that could define its path to glory at the 2025 BWF World Championships.
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