KUALA LUMPUR — Malaysia made themselves right at home in Xiamen, brushing aside France 5-0 in their opening Group C tie at the 2025 Sudirman Cup today.
If there were any nerves about adjusting to the court or the drift inside the Fenghuang Gymnasium, the Malaysians hid it well — wrapping up all five matches in straight games.
Goh Sze Fei and Nur Izzuddin Mohd Rumsani got the ball rolling with an effortless display in the men’s doubles, needing just 29 minutes to dismantle Mael Cattoen and Lucas Renoir 21-11, 21-9.
“We’re still trying to adapt to the court and the wind conditions, but it’s important to start strong,” Sze Fei told the Badminton World Federation (BWF).
“We had a good preparation at BAM’s (Badminton Association of Malaysia) training camp — thanks to coach Herry (Iman Pierngadi) and the team.”
In the women’s singles, Goh Jin Wei made light work of Léonice Huet, cruising to a 21-10, 21-19 win in 33 minutes to double Malaysia’s lead.
Playing in her third Sudirman Cup, Jin Wei spoke of the pride she feels pulling on national colours.
“It’s a great honour to contribute points for Malaysia. I’m very grateful for the faith BAM continue to show in me.”
Leong Jun Hao was pushed hard in the men’s singles, but held his nerve to clinch a tense 22-20, 21-19 victory over Arnaud Merkle after 55 minutes of fast and furious rallies.
The women’s doubles saw Pearly Tan and M. Thinaah maintain Malaysia’s perfect day, beating Margot Lambert and Camille Pognante 21-13, 21-10.
Goh Soon Huat and Shevon Lai wrapped things up in the mixed doubles with a 21-7, 21-19 win over Grégoire Deschamp and Elsa Jacob.
“It’s been a good one for us because our teammates took a lot of pressure off,” said Shevon.
“During our match, we were really trying to get used to the court conditions. It was refreshing training at BAM too — good to mix with the younger players.”
Malaysia face Australia tomorrow before a likely group-decider against third seeds Japan on May 1. The top two sides from each group will progress to the quarter-finals.
Malaysia’s best finishes at the Sudirman Cup came in 2009, 2021 and 2023 — all semi-final appearances. Early signs suggest they’re eyeing a little more this time. — April 28, 2025