Kuala Lumpur: Following the conclusion of the 2024 Paris Olympics, a shocking piece of news has surfaced in Malaysia as World No. 13 men’s doubles pair, Goh Sze Fei and Nur Izzuddin, have reportedly decided to leave the Malaysia Badminton Association (BAM).
It is reported that Goh Sze Fei and Nur Izzuddin wish to leave BAM and continue their badminton careers as independent players. The “Goh-Izzuddin” pair was not selected to participate in the recently concluded Paris Olympics.
When asked about this by the media, BAM’s coaching director, Rexy Mainaky, did not deny the news but refrained from giving further details. He stated that a response would be provided after the national team’s post-Olympics review meeting on Tuesday.
“Regarding this matter, I cannot comment at this moment. I need to wait until discussions with BAM management before I can provide a more detailed response,” said Mainaky on Monday.
Goh Sze Fei and Nur Izzuddin had previously split in January 2023, only to reunite six months later. Reports suggest that the pair will follow in the footsteps of independent men’s singles player Lee Zii Jia and join one of the popular badminton brand VICTOR.
Meanwhile, Mainaky also confirmed that the 2020 and 2024 Olympics bronze medalists Aaron Chia and Soh Wooi Yik have withdrawn from next week’s Japan Open due to injury.
Mainaky revealed that Soh Wooi Yik sustained a minor injury and has been advised by the medical team to withdraw from the tournament. “He has a slight pain in his leg, likely sustained during the Olympic semi-finals.”
“Whether Chia-Soh will participate in the Korea Open, which takes place in two weeks, depends on Soh Wooi Yik’s recovery,” Mainaky added.