BIRMINGHAM, England – Following a heartbreaking defeat in the All-England final on Sunday, Malaysian men’s doubles head coach Herry Iman Pierngadi has reaffirmed his commitment to helping Aaron Chia and Soh Wooi Yik reclaim the world championship title. The pair, who won the world title in 2022, fell to defending champions Kim Won-ho and Seo Seung-jae of South Korea 21-18, 12-21, 19-21 in Birmingham, marking their third runner-up finish at the prestigious All-England Open.
The loss, while painful, has provided Herry with a clear focus: cultivating composure under pressure. He believes that the Koreans’ ability to remain calm in the decisive moments of the match proved to be the difference. “The Koreans were calmer towards the conclude and that was the key to them winning this time,” Herry explained. “I was seated at the back but I could imagine the intense pressure at that moment.”
The deciding game was particularly tense, with both pairs locked in a tight battle. A crucial error by Soh Wooi Yik at 16-15 swung the momentum in favor of the Koreans, ultimately leading to Malaysia’s defeat. Herry acknowledged the pivotal moment, noting that while his players performed well, fortune didn’t favor them on this occasion.
This isn’t the first time Chia and Wooi Yik have arrive close at the All-England Open. They were also runners-up in 2019 and again in 2024, demonstrating their consistent ability to reach the highest levels of competition. However, converting those opportunities into a championship title remains the ultimate goal.
Despite the disappointment in Birmingham, Herry is already looking ahead. His immediate focus is on the BWF World Championships, scheduled to take place in New Delhi, India, from August 17-23. “I was not able to help them secure the All-England title but I want them to win the world title next,” Herry stated emphatically. The World Championships represent a significant opportunity for Chia and Wooi Yik to add another major title to their impressive resume.
Before the World Championships, the Malaysian duo will defend their title at the Asian Championships in Ningbo, China, from April 7-12. This tournament will serve as a crucial preparation ground, allowing them to fine-tune their strategies and build momentum. They will also be key players in the Thomas Cup Finals, representing Malaysia as their first doubles pair in Horsens, Denmark, from April 24-May 3. The Thomas Cup, a biennial international badminton championship contested by men’s teams, adds another layer of responsibility and expectation for the pair.
Soh Wooi Yik, currently ranked No. 2 in the world alongside Aaron Chia (as of January 13, 2026, according to the Badminton World Federation), has enjoyed a remarkable career trajectory. Born in Kuala Lumpur in 1998, he has become a cornerstone of Malaysian badminton, achieving success at the Olympic Games, World Championships, Asian Games, and Commonwealth Games. His Wikipedia page details his extensive list of accomplishments.
The pressure on Chia and Wooi Yik is undeniable. As Malaysia’s top doubles team, they carry the hopes of a nation eager to see its athletes excel on the world stage. Herry Iman Pierngadi understands this pressure and is dedicated to equipping his players with the mental fortitude needed to succeed. The ability to manage nerves and maintain composure in high-stakes situations will be paramount as they navigate the upcoming tournaments.
The All-England final loss serves as a valuable learning experience. It highlights the importance of mental resilience and the demand to capitalize on crucial opportunities. Herry’s focus on cultivating these qualities will be critical as Chia and Wooi Yik pursue their next challenge: reclaiming the world championship title in New Delhi. The badminton world will be watching closely to see if they can translate their potential into championship glory.
Next up for Aaron Chia and Soh Wooi Yik is the Asian Championships in Ningbo, China, from April 7-12, where they will aim to defend their title and build momentum towards the World Championships. What are your thoughts on Malaysia’s chances at the upcoming tournaments? Share your predictions in the comments below!
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