Kok Siang sets more realistic targets for Goh-Izzuddin, Goh-Shevon
Professional doubles coach Teo Kok Siang believes the goal is appropriate for now, especially with Sze Fei-Izzuddin returning as the defending champions.
All eyes will be on the top seeds, who not only bear the weight of expectations but also need to avoid an early exit to protect their position at the top of the world rankings.
'This is a Super 750-level tournament, there's no such thing as an easy or difficult draw. What I can say is we'll keep fighting, and their preparations have gone well. Based on the draw, I believe we have a good chance,' said Kok Siang when contacted.
'What's important is that they have the hunger. They won this event last year, and I hope they can retain the title.
'Of course, everyone wants to be champion, but more importantly, I want them to enjoy their matches. For now, getting past the quarter-finals is the focus, we'll take it step by step.''
The same expectations have been placed on Soon Huat-Shevon.
Kok Siang confirmed that Soon Huat is now fully fit and ready for the Japan Open before heading to Changzhou for the China Open next week.
Soon Huat had been struggling with a series of injuries to his hips and legs which had affected his performances in recent tournaments.
'I hope Soon Huat and Shevon can be more consistent with their gameplay. Soon Huat is fully recovered and has no major issues. I just hope his past injuries don't return,' added Kok Siang.
Sze Fei-Izzuddin got off to a strong start, brushing aside Canada's Kevin Lee-Ty Alexander Lindeman 21-13, 21-15 in just 23 minutes in their opening-round match yesterday.
They will meet the winners of the tie between Japan's Hiroki Midorikawa-Kyohei Yamashita and Taiwan's Chiu Hsiang-chieh-Wang Chi-lin in the second round tomorrow.
Also progressing were Nur Azriyn Ayub-Tan Wee Kiong, who fought back from a game down to edge French siblings Christo and Toma Junior Popov 13-21, 21-17, 21-19.
However, it was a short-lived debut for young women's pair Ong Xin Yee-Carmen Ting, who fell 21-17, 8-21, 8-21 to Japan's Rin Iwanaga-Kie Nakanishi in the first round.
Soon Huat-Shevon are set to open their campaign today against Thailand's Ruttanapak Oupthong-Jhenicha Sudjaipraparat.
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