PETALING JAYA: From the badminton court to the TikTok stage, mixed doubles shuttler Tan Kian Meng is preparing for a major transition in his career – after the All-England.
The 30-year-old mixed doubles specialist will officially retire from the sport after playing his final tournament with Lai Pei Jing at the prestigious event from March 11-16 in Birmingham.
The world No. 17 Kian Meng and Pei Jing have partnered for nine years with their biggest career achievement being their 2022 Korean Open victory. The duo once reached a career-high world ranking of No. 5 and consistently challenged the top 10 pairs in the world.
However, their journey has also seen its share of struggles, including injuries and dips in form.
While Pei Jing will continue competing younger partner Jimmy Wong, Kian Meng is ready to explore a different path – this time, off the court and in front of the camera.
“I plan to start a live TikTok show as a host. I may even launch a TikTok shop,” said Kian Meng.
“Of course, the topics will be about badminton players and the sport.”
Before stepping into his new role, Kian Meng wants to savour his last stint with Pei Jing.
“There are many moments that we’ll always cherish, which includes reaching world No. 5 in a highly competitive mixed doubles field, winning a world Tour 500 title (Korean Open), and reaching the Super 1000 final,” he said.
The other titles he has won with Pei Jing are 2016 Vietnam and Thailand Opens, and 2017 Malaysian Masters.
Originally a singles player, Kian Meng switched to mixed doubles in 2014 due to lack of results and stiff competition in the singles.
As he bids farewell to professional badminton, Kian Meng will ensure that his journey in the sport will continue in a new and exciting way.
