Jakarta: The era of “The Minions” in Indonesian badminton has come to an end after Kevin Sanjaya Sukamuljo followed his partner, Marcus Fernaldi Gideon, in retiring from the sport that made their names renowned.
The retirement announcement of Kevin Sanjaya was announced by the Head of Development and Achievement Division of PBSI (Indonesian Badminton Association), Ricky Soebagdja, on Thursday.
“When I returned from the European tour, I had communication with the coach, and I asked for Kevin’s time to meet on April 6,” said Ricky Soebagdja in a press conference held in Cipayung, East Jakarta, on Thursday.
Ricky added that PBSI respects the decision made by Kevin Sanjaya. PBSI appreciates the achievements of Kevin Sanjaya along with Marcus Fernaldi Gideon, who became the world’s number one men’s doubles pair for total of 215 consecutive weeks.
Regarding the reasons for Kevin’s withdrawal from the Indonesian national team, Ricky said there was no specific reason.
“Perhaps he has other commitments, so he decided to bid farewell to the national team,” said Soebagdja.
As it is known, in March 2024, Marcus Fernaldi Gideon announced through his social media account that he was ending his professional career, which he had pursued for 25 years.
PBSI will hold a special event to pay respect and recognition for their achievements during the BWF Super 1000 Indonesia Open 2024 tournament in June.
“There will be a farewell for the Minions at the Indonesia Open,” said Soebagdja.
With Marcus and Kevin’s withdrawal from the Indonesia national team, Soebagdja hopes this will spur other Indonesian men’s doubles pairs to strive and achieve success on the world stage.
Soebagdja has high hopes for young men’s doubles pairs like Bagas Maulana/Muhammad Shohibul Fikri, Leo Rolly Carnando/Daniel Marthin, and others.
“The hope is for the Indonesian men’s doubles in the national team, this can motivate them, like Bagas/Fikri, Leo/Daniel. Someday they must be able to replace their seniors and be at the top level,” said Soebagdja.
