PETALING JAYA: Men’s doubles shuttler Aaron Chia was singing praise of his new partner Aaron Tai after reaching the Taiwan Open final in only their second outing together.
The scratch pair, seeded fifth in Taiwan, came close to winning their breakthrough title but fell 23-21, 21-19 to Indonesia’s Leo Carnando-Daniel Marthin on Sunday.
The 29-year-old Chia encouraged his younger partner to reach for the sky.
"At just 19, Aaron Tai has already shown the composure and quality he brings to the court," said Aaron on social media.
"There’s a lot ahead of him, and even more yet to be discovered.
"This journey indeed presents a different challenge, a fresh perspective."
Chia has been playing with different partners since head coach Herry Iman Pierngadi has been experimenting the men's doubles combinations to form the most lethal one for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games challenge.
And for now Herry stated that Chia-Tai have been showing the best chemistry among the lot.
After ending his maiden appearance in the China Open with a first round exit with Tai, Chia hopes for continuous progress.
"Every match leaves us with something to learn, and every result gives us something to build on," Aaron
"To everyone who continues to stand behind us through every change and every challenge - thank you.
"There is still much to learn and much to build. For now, we stay grounded and keep moving forward. Let the work speak."
The Aarons will remain together for the Korean Masters this week, but will have new partners for the China Masters from Sept 1-6.
Chia teams up with Man Wei Chong while Tai will partner Soh Wooi Yik.
