PETALING JAYA: Mixed doubles shuttlers Jimmy Wong-Lai Pei Jing received a boost ahead of the Malaysia Super 100 from Oct 14-19 in Iskandar Puteri, Johor, after breaking into the world's top 40 rankings for the first time.
Jimmy-Pei Jing, who only combined in March, jumped nine spots from No. 48 to No. 39 after reaching the semi-finals of the Taiwan Masters last week.
The independent pair are still seeking their first title together but have progressed steadily since deciding to form a partnership.
In their short time together, Jimmy-Pei Jing have finished runners-up five times in the Macau Open, Indonesian Masters, Vietnam International Challenge, Phuket International Series and St Denis Reunion Open.
The pair have become the fifth highest ranked Malaysians in the world in the mixed doubles behind world No. 4 Chen Tang Jie-Toh Ee Wei, world No. 8 Goh Soon Huat-Shevon Lai Jemie, Hoo Pang Ron-Cheng Su Yin (No. 19) and Wong Tien Ci-Lim Chiew Sien (No. 33).
The 33-year-old Pei Jing is showing that age is no obstacle for her as she moves closer to breaking into the world's top 32 with Jimmy, who is a decade younger than her at 23.
Moving into the top 32 will grant the duo access to World Tour Super 750 and 1000 competitions.
Pei Jing is happy with her progress with Jimmy as she hopes for another good showing in the home tourney.
"There were wins, there were regrets for us but every moment is part of the journey," said Pei Jing via social media.
"Thank you, fans, family, coach, partner and sponsors for giving me the strength through the highs and lows. Together, we keep moving forward, stronger every step."
Jimmy-Pei Jing will be making their debuts in the Malaysia Super 100 and will be looking to finally end their wait for a title with the backing of the home fans.
Based on the list of names registered for the event, the pair will be seeded second in the event only behind India's world No. 38 Ashith Surya-Amrutha Pramuthesh.
The draw for the tournament will be released on Tuesday.
