Sze Fei-Izzuddin's dip in form just a 'learning curve', says Soon Kit

New Straits Times

8 hours ago

KUALA LUMPUR: Datuk Cheah Soon Kit believes Goh Sze Fei-Nur Izzuddin Rumsani have what it takes to weather the storm and rise to the challenge of being world No. 1.
The national men's doubles legend said the recent dip in form by the Malaysian pair — who ascended to the top of the world rankings in late May — is merely part of the learning curve.
Since reaching the summit, Sze Fei-Izzuddin have struggled to live up to expectations, with three quarter-final exits at the Malaysia Masters, Singapore Open, and Indonesia Open.
They now look to regroup ahead of the Japan Open (July 15-20) and China Open (July 22-27) — two back-to-back Super 750 and 1000 tournaments which could serve as a barometer of their title credentials heading into the Paris World Championships (August 25-31).
"Maybe it's because they suddenly became world No. 1 — a lot of expectations came with that," said Soon Kit, who coached the pair during their formative years in the national setup.
"The public now expects them to reach finals or win titles all the time. Hopefully, this short break helps them reset emotionally and mentally. Then they can move forward."
Soon Kit, who first identified their chemistry and officially paired them up in 2016, said he has always believed in their potential, particularly Izzuddin's fighting spirit.
"Izzuddin was very committed and hardworking. He had strong attacking power — that's one of the reasons I saw him as someone with good potential."
Today, Sze Fei-Izzuddin are among the current longest-standing partnerships in world badminton, a bond that has endured even through a brief separation in 2023.
"They're more mature and stable now," said Soon Kit.
"They just need to keep working together and supporting each other. That's the most important thing. They're already at the top, so don't overthink.
"Sometimes you win, sometimes you lose, that's part and parcel of the game. But you must be able to handle pressure, whether it's from the public or elsewhere. In the end, your own ambition must remain strong."
Soon Kit added that coping with pressure will be the biggest test for the top-ranked pair.
"It's all about spirit. They need to keep their fighting spirit alive.