Kuala Lumpur: Malaysia’s top mixed doubles pairs Chen Tang Jie/Toh Ee Wei and Hoo Pang Ron/Cheng Su Yin will sit out the German Open as they shift their full focus to the All England 2026, one of the biggest events on the badminton calendar.
The move is aimed at ensuring the pairs arrive in Birmingham in peak condition for the Super 1000 tournament. Chen/Toh are currently ranked world No. 4, while Hoo/Cheng sit at world No. 21, and both pairs are expected to represent the Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM) at the All England.
Why Malaysia’s Mixed Doubles Pairs Are Skipping the German Open
The German Open is scheduled from February 24 to March 1, followed immediately by the All England from March 3 to March 8. Malaysia’s mixed doubles coach Nova Widianto said the decision was made to avoid the physical toll of back-to-back tournaments and the tight travel window between the two events.
“We discussed it with the players and decided to focus directly on the All England,” Nova explained. “If we reach the final in Germany, we might only arrive in Birmingham late Sunday night or early Monday. So we believe it’s better to prepare specifically for the All England.”
A Different Approach from Aaron Chia/Soh Wooi Yik
The strategy differs from Malaysia’s men’s doubles plan, where Aaron Chia/Soh Wooi Yik are still set to compete at the German Open before heading to Birmingham.
Nova noted that the mixed doubles camp is taking a more cautious route due to minor physical issues within the squad. “There are always small concerns—little knocks, slight injuries—but what matters most is that we stay ready and remain focused,” he said.
All England 2026 Goals: “Stay Focused, Don’t Talk About Titles Yet”
When asked about targets for the All England, Nova struck a careful tone. He pointed out that both pairs suffered first-round exits last year, making it too early to talk openly about winning the title.
“We’re not talking about winning yet,” he said. “We want the best possible result. Even if the first-round opponents are lower ranked, we must stay fully focused.”
What’s Next After the All England?
After the All England, only Hoo Pang Ron/Cheng Su Yin are expected to compete at the Swiss Open (March 10–15). Meanwhile, Chen Tang Jie/Toh Ee Wei will assess their physical condition before confirming their next tournament.
2026 Season Form Check
So far this season, Chen/Toh have shown strong flashes of form: they reached the quarterfinals at the Malaysia Open, exited early at the India Open, and then captured the Indonesia Masters title. Hoo/Cheng, however, have played three tournaments in 2026 and are still chasing their first quarterfinal appearance of the year.
