PETALING JAYA: It has been almost two years since Goh Sze Fei-Nur Izzuddin Rumsani reunited as a men’s doubles pair, and what a journey it has been with the duo now standing proudly as the world No. 1.
Their first match as the top-ranked pair went smoothly when they brushed aside Taiwan’s Lee Fang-chih-Lee Fang-jen 21-13, 21-11 in the opening round of the Singapore Open on Wednesday (May 28).
While many players struggled with the strong drift at the Singapore Indoor Stadium, Sze Fei and Izzuddin adapted well and maintained control throughout the 32-minute match.
They will face compatriots Wan Arif Wan Junaidi-Yap Roy King in the second round.
“I think our strategy worked well and our preparation was on point. Our main focus is to play our best and not let anything interfere. We just want to enjoy the match. The wind was quite strong, but the most important thing was that we stuck to our game,” said Izzuddin in an interview with the BWF.
Sze Fei-Izzuddin parted ways in January 2023 due to internal conflicts but reunited five months later.
Since then, they have quickly found success by winning the US Open and have continued to build on that momentum.
Their decision to leave the Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM) did not slow them down. They went on to win six more titles, including the Indian Open earlier this year.
“We’ve always enjoyed the process because we believe in it. We are grateful to our team and sponsors who have supported us all the way. The world No. 1 ranking is something we dedicate to the entire country,” said Sze Fei.
They also view the progress of the national men’s doubles department positively, with Aaron Chia and Soh Wooi Yik currently ranked fourth and Man Wei Chong and Tee Kai Wun sitting in seventh.
“Now we have three strong pairs. This is a very good sign for the men’s doubles team. No matter who is on court, we are all fighting for Malaysia and for the flag," he added.
