Despite the narrow defeat, the journey is far from over for Malaysia. Jun Hao and Co to need Lift Their Heads Finishing as the runners-up of their group, the team has successfully booked a spot in the quarter-finals — a vital step toward their ultimate goal of securing a podium finish.
After a valiant yet heartbreaking 2-3 loss to badminton powerhouse Japan in their final Group C encounter at the Sudirman Cup in Xiamen, China, the Malaysian team must now reset their focus, realign their mindset, and channel their energy toward their next big challenge — the quarter-final showdown against host nation China.
A Mixed Bag of Performances
Malaysia opened the tie against Japan with promising momentum. The mixed doubles pair Chen Tang Jie and Toh Ee Wei delivered a resounding victory to set the tone, followed by Leong Jun Hao’s inspired performance in the men’s singles, giving Malaysia an early 2-0 lead. The dream of toppling the highly ranked Japanese squad looked within reach.
However, the tide began to shift in Japan’s favor. Goh Jin Wei was outplayed in the women’s singles, while the renowned men’s doubles duo Aaron Chia and Soh Wooi Yik, despite a strong start, succumbed in a nail-biting three-game match to Japan’s Takuro Hoki and Yugo Kobayashi — a clash of former world champions that could have gone either way. The final blow came in the women’s doubles, where Pearly Tan and M. Thinaah were unable to turn the tables.
“We Left It All on the Court” – Kenneth Jonassen
Speaking after the match, national singles coaching director Kenneth Jonassen expressed pride in his team’s fighting spirit and commitment.
“Our players gave their all today. It was an intense contest, and we fought with heart and aggression. Sometimes, things just don’t swing your way. I truly felt luck wasn’t on our side against Japan, but I can’t fault the effort,” Jonassen said, acknowledging both the passion on court and the bench’s unwavering support throughout the tie.
He emphasized that while the loss stings, it’s important for the team to shift focus quickly. The tournament moves fast, and so must they.
Eyes Set on the Quarter-Finals
With their quarter-final berth secured, Malaysia now stands one win away from a guaranteed medal. Under Sudirman Cup rules, reaching the semi-finals ensures at least a bronze — a milestone Malaysia has achieved in both the 2021 (Vantaa, Finland) and 2023 (Suzhou, China) editions.
Jonassen believes the key to success lies in maintaining the same energy, unity, and self-belief that have fueled the squad thus far.
“The level of intensity will only rise from here, especially as we go up against China on their home turf. But I told the team — if we carry the same spirit and determination, we can push any opponent to the limit. It’s about channeling our aggression in the right way and believing we belong at this level,” he said.
No Need for a Major Overhaul
Despite the outcome against Japan, Jonassen sees no reason for sweeping changes.
“Honestly, we don’t need to reinvent the wheel. We played some fantastic badminton. What we need now is composure, smart recovery, and maybe a touch of luck,” he added with a smile.
With the pressure mounting and the stakes higher than ever, Malaysia enters the quarter-final with a chance not only to redeem themselves but also to etch their names deeper into the tournament’s history.
One thing is clear: the fight is still very much alive, and Malaysia is far from done.
ALSO READ :
