Suwon, South Korea – It was a mixed start for the Malaysian contingent at the 2025 Korea Open, but rising star Justin Hoh and experienced mixed doubles pair Goh Soon Huat/Shevon Jemie Lai delivered commanding performances to secure their places in the second round.
Justin Hoh Continues Giant-Killer Form
Justin Hoh, ranked No. 37 in the world, showed once again why he is one of Malaysia’s brightest badminton prospects. The 20-year-old stunned World No. 19 Wang Zheng Xing of China with a swift 21-6, 21-19 straight-set victory in just 40 minutes at the Suwon Gymnasium.
The match showcased Justin’s fast-paced control and excellent anticipation, particularly in the first set, where he dominated the court. Though Wang tried to mount a comeback in the second set, Justin stayed composed under pressure, closing out the match confidently.
This marks another major scalp for Justin, who has built a reputation for toppling higher-ranked players on the world tour. He now faces Anders Antonsen, the Danish star and tournament fourth seed, in the second round—a highly anticipated showdown.
Watch highlights of Justin Hoh vs. Wang Zheng Xing in the first round of 2025 Korea Open:
Leong Jun Hao Falls Despite Higher Ranking
In contrast, Leong Jun Hao, who recently broke into the BWF Top 20, suffered a narrow defeat against Indonesia’s Alwi Farhan (World No. 21). Leong fell 21-19, 26-24 in a tightly contested match, unable to convert key opportunities in both sets. Despite a higher ranking, Jun Hao couldn’t withstand Farhan’s relentless rallies and aggressive court coverage.
Goh Soon Huat/Shevon Lai Hold Their Nerve
Malaysia’s mixed doubles No. 8 pairing, Goh Soon Huat and Shevon Jemie Lai, overcame Indonesia’s Adnan Maulana/Indah Cahya Sari Jamil (World No. 30) in a gritty opening-round match that tested both skill and nerve.
In the first set, the Malaysian duo capitalized on early errors from their opponents to win 21-19. The second set was a dramatic affair: after falling behind 2-6, Goh/Lai clawed their way back to level the score at 14-all.
The Indonesian pair even held match point at 20-19, but Goh and Lai used their experience to stay calm, fend off the threat, and seal the match 22-20 in 38 minutes.
This win is especially crucial for the pair, who have struggled in recent tournaments—including first-round exits at the China Open, World Championships, Hong Kong Open, and China Masters.
Up next for them is a clash with China’s Gao Jia Xuan/Wu Meng Ying (World No. 25), a formidable pairing known for their aggressive front-court play.
Goh Jin Wei’s Struggles Continue
On the women’s singles side, Goh Jin Wei was unable to reverse her run of poor form. Ranked 55th in the world, Jin Wei lost 7-21, 15-21 to Korea’s Kim Ga Eun (World No. 19) in just 32 minutes. Despite her best efforts, Jin Wei was outplayed by the home favorite in all departments.
What’s Next
With several Malaysian stars—including Aaron Chia/Soh Wooi Yik, Goh Sze Fei/Nur Izzuddin, and Man Wei Chong/Tee Kai Wun—sitting out this tournament, the pressure is now on rising talents like Justin Hoh and Goh/Lai to carry the country’s hopes deeper into the draw.
