Malaysia’s Double Chance at LA 2028 Still Uncertain, Says Rexy

Malaysia’s men’s doubles badminton scene is heating up with four strong pairs making waves in the world rankings. Goh Sze Fei-Nur Izzuddin Rumsani (world No. 1), Aaron Chia-Soh Wooi Yik (No. 2), Man Wei Chong-Tee Kai Wun (No. 7), and Yap Roy King-Wan Arif Wan Junaidi (No. 24) are showing strong potential to qualify for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.

Currently, only two pairs can represent a country in men’s doubles at the Olympics—provided both are in the top 8 at the end of the qualifying period. The Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM) is optimistic, but doubles coaching director Rexy Mainaky is urging caution.

“Now, we have two pairs in the top two rankings in the world. We also have Wei Chong-Kai Wun and Arif-Roy King behind them,” said Rexy.

He believes Malaysia’s strong showing is a good sign, but the players must not lose focus.

“Our players’ rise is good as it gives them confidence and will put pressure on other countries.

“We hope to have four pairs in the world’s top four before the Olympics in 2028. There’s a good chance for four pairs to fight for the two spots to qualify for the Olympics.”

Rexy reminded everyone that despite the impressive progress, the journey is still long and anything can happen in the next three years.

“I do feel satisfied with our players’ achievements but we can’t afford to rest on our laurels as there are still many tournaments left and a long way still to go for the Olympics,” said Rexy.

“We may slip up if we are satisfied now but if we stay hungry and work hard from now on, I’m confident with the support of all parties, we have a good chance to win gold in 2028. We need to work even harder after this to maintain the players’ performances. At the same time, we need to keep an eye on the progress of the pairs from the other countries to stay ahead of them.”

Among the highlights this season, Wei Chong-Kai Wun impressed by capturing titles at the Indonesian Masters (January) and Malaysian Masters (May). Their recent performances earned them a place in the Road to Gold (RTG) programme, an elite initiative focused on Malaysia’s Olympic gold medal pursuit.

The RTG also includes Aaron-Wooi Yik, Pearly Tan-M. Thinaah in women’s doubles, and Chen Tang Jie-Toh Ee Wei in mixed doubles.

Meanwhile, Sze Fei-Izzuddin hit a new career high by reaching No. 1 in the world rankings last month. And youngsters Roy King-Arif, who began their partnership in 2023, are quickly proving they belong on the world stage.

With the 2028 Olympics on the horizon, Malaysia’s men’s doubles squad isn’t just aiming to qualify—they’re dreaming big, and possibly, of finally bringing home gold.