Standing tall: Men’s doubles champions Man Wei Chong-Tee Kai Wun (in dark blue attire) and runners-up Aaron Chia-Soh Wooi Yik posing with their coaches Herry and Miftakh after the final at the Malaysian Masters this year. — IZZRAFIQ ALIAS/The Star
PETALING JAYA: National men’s doubles pairs Aaron Chia-Soh Wooi Yik and Man Wei Chong-Tee Kai Wun had a unique way of celebrating their recent title wins by treating the entire men’s doubles squad to a short retreat in Genting Highlands.
The initiative was a show of appreciation from the two top pairs, who acknowledged the contributions of their teammates in the men’s doubles camp as an important part of their success.
It was confirmed by national doubles coaching director Rexy Mainaky, who said the retreat was aimed at strengthening team spirit, providing a chance for the players to relax, and motivating each other ahead of upcoming tournaments.
Last month proved to be a memorable one for the national badminton camp. Aaron-Wooi Yik, fresh from being crowned Asian champions, carried their momentum into the Thailand Open, where they captured the title.
A week later in Kuala Lumpur, the pair reached the final of the Malaysian Masters, only to be denied by Wei Chong-Kai Wun in an all-Malaysian showdown, with the world No. 7 pair emerging victorious.
Aaron-Wooi Yik continued their impressive form by lifting the Singapore Open crown the following week in the Lion City.
Earlier in January, Wei Chong-Kai Wun had already made their mark with a title win at the Indonesian Masters at Istora Senayan.
"Aaron-Wooi Yik and Wei Chong-Kai Wun actually expressed their appreciation to the back-up men’s doubles players for their support in helping them win their recent titles.
"Instead of treating them to lunch or dinner, the men’s doubles group decided to go for a relaxing retreat together for some team-building and to motivate one another," said Rexy when contacted.
However, Rexy did not join the retreat this time as he was unwell. The session was instead overseen and managed by head coach Herry Iman Pierngadi.
The players are expected to return to a packed schedule starting next month, with the focus on the Japan Open from July 15–20, followed by the China Open from July 22–27.
