Japan Open: Aaron-Khai Xing eye bigger upsets against world champs in quarters
Malaysian badminton players Aaron Tai and Kang Khai Xing are preparing for a challenging quarter-final match at the Japan Open after a series of impressive upsets. Other Malaysian pairs, including Goh Sze Fei-Nur Izzuddin and Jimmy Wong-Cheng Su Yin, have also advanced in the tournament.
Why it matters
The performance of these athletes highlights the competitive landscape of international badminton and the rise of emerging talent in the sport.
PETALING JAYA: Giantkillers Aaron Tai-Kang Khai Xing are all hyped up to continue their impressive runs at the Japan Open but will face their toughest tests yet in the men’s doubles quarter-finals today.
Aaron-Khai Xing announced themselves by upsetting world No. 8 Chen Boyang-Liu Yi of China in the opening round before easing past Taiwan’s Lee Jhe-huei-Yang Po-hsuan 21-10, 21-15 at Tokyo Metropolitan Gymnasium yesterday.
The duo have a daunting task ahead against world No. 1 and defending champions Kim Won-ho-Seo Seung-jae of South Korea in the men’s doubles.
The pair credited their success to their game plan.
“We’re very happy with today’s win because I think we prepared really well for the match,” Khai Xing told the BWF.
“Our strength was controlling the first three shots, as well as serving and receiving serve effectively.”
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