KUALA LUMPUR: Men’s doubles pair Goh Sze Fei-Nur Izzuddin Rumsani did not expect South Korea’s Kim Won-ho-Seo Seung-jae to showcase such a vastly different game from their last meeting in the Indian Open final two months ago.
Back then, Sze Fei-Izzuddin edged the Koreans in a gruelling three-game battle, making them one of only two pairs, alongside Kang Min-hyuk-Kim Dong-ju, to defeat the formidable duo this year.
But it was a different story in the All-England second round on Thursday, as Won-ho-Seung-jae took just 36 minutes to seal a commanding 21-16, 21-13 victory in Birmingham.
It was a bitter pill to swallow for Sze Fei-Izzuddin, who had waited three editions to get past the second round, having crashed out in the first round in 2020, 2022, and 2024.
“I think they managed to intercept our strategy. They didn’t lift too many shuttles, which made it quite difficult for us to attack,” said Izzuddin in a post-match interview with the Badminton World Federation.
His partner, Sze Fei, admitted his performance fell short, leaving them struggling to counter the fast-paced play of Kim-Seo. Even so, the Melaka-born shuttler wished the Korean pair well, believing they have the potential to go all the way.
“They were faster than us and controlled the rhythm of the game. I don’t think I played my part very well. I tried to create chances for my partner, but it didn’t work out,” said Sze Fei.
“They have always been among the favourites to win the title. They have the ability, and I wish them all the best.
“We really gave our best effort, and I truly appreciate my partner for always encouraging me, as well as my team and coach. Thank you for believing in me.”
It was ironic for Seung-jae, as his previous five attempts since 2018 including partnerships with Kang Min-hyuk and Choi Sol-gyu had never seen him reach the quarter-finals.
