PETALING JAYA: It was a blow for world No. 2 men’s doubles pair Aaron Chia-Soh Wooi Yik as they suffered a shock early exit in the first round of the Japan Open on Wednesday (July 16).
Playing at the Tokyo Metropolitan Gymnasium, Aaron-Wooi Yik were given a tough fight by compatriots Teo Ee Yi-Ong Yew Sin.
Despite coming in as the second seeds, nothing went their way as they were sent packing by Ee Yi-Yew Sin, losing 15-21, 15-21 in just 30 minutes.
In another all-Malaysian clash, Man Wei Chong-Tee Kai Wun were given a scare by Yap Roy King-Wan Arif Wan Junaidi, who pushed hard in their bid to secure a spot in the second round.
However, Wei Chong-Kai Wun regained their composure just in time to take control of the match and sealed their place in the next round with a hard-fought 30-28, 21-12 win.
Meanwhile, in the women’s doubles, Pearly Tan-M. Thinaah made a strong start to their campaign following the recent extension of their contracts with the Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM).
They made light work of Bulgarian sisters Gabriela and Stefani Stoeva, securing a 21-16, 21-14 win in 31 minutes.
