Goh Sze Fei and Nur Izzuddin Rumsani continued their impressive rise by booking a place in the Malaysia Masters final after defeating fellow Malaysians Aaron Chia and Soh Wooi Yik in straight games.
The independent duo delivered a composed and confident performance at the Unifi Arena, winning 21-18, 21-12 in just 33 minutes to reach the final of the home tournament for the first time since finishing runners-up seven years ago.
Coming into the match, Aaron and Wooi Yik held a strong 6-2 head-to-head advantage, but Sze Fei and Izzuddin looked sharper from the opening exchanges and controlled the pace throughout the semifinal.
Their victory continues a strong run of form after recently capturing the Indonesia Masters title, further strengthening their reputation as one of the most dangerous pairs on tour this season.
Izzuddin credited their calm approach and ability to handle pressure as key factors behind the win. He also stressed that the result does not necessarily make them the better pair overall, but reflected who performed better on the day.
For Aaron and Wooi Yik, the defeat was a disappointing setback, especially after entering the tournament among the favourites following the withdrawal of defending champions Man Wei Chong and Tee Kai Wun.
The frustration was evident during the match, with Aaron receiving a warning after throwing his racquet late in the second game. After the loss, Aaron admitted the pair lacked patience during crucial moments and made too many unforced errors, while praising their opponents for being more consistent and solid throughout the contest.
The defeat ends Malaysia’s hopes of an all-national men’s doubles final and leaves Aaron and Wooi Yik searching for quick improvements ahead of the Singapore Open next week, where they will defend their Super 750 title.
Meanwhile, Sze Fei and Izzuddin are now one win away from completing a remarkable redemption story at the Malaysia Masters, a tournament that once brought heartbreak but now offers the chance for a career-defining triumph.
