BIRMINGHAM, England – Aaron Chia and Soh Wooi Yik carry the hopes of a nation into Sunday’s All England Open final, seeking to end Malaysia’s lengthy 19-year title drought at the prestigious tournament. The second-ranked men’s doubles pair will face top seeds Kim Won-ho and Seo Seung-jae at the Utilita Arena Birmingham in a match steeped in history and national pride.
This marks the third All England Open final appearance for Chia and Soh, following runner-up finishes in 2019 and 2024. Their journey to the final underscores their consistent performance and growing stature within the world of badminton. The weight of expectation is palpable, as Malaysia hasn’t celebrated an All England Open champion since Koo Kien Keat and Tan Boon Heong’s victory in 2007.
The pressure isn’t lost on those who have walked this path before. Former All-England champions Koo Kien Keat and Tan Boon Heong have publicly expressed their support, urging Chia and Soh to seize the moment and deliver a victory for Malaysia. The duo’s success would not only break the nearly two-decade-long title drought but also cement their place in Malaysian badminton folklore.
National men’s doubles head coach Herry IP acknowledged the challenge ahead, emphasizing the importance of composure under pressure. According to reports, Herry noted that luck and crucial errors played a role in previous defeats, but believes his charges are capable of overcoming those hurdles. “[The Koreans] were calmer towards the end and that was the key to them winning this time,” Herry said, as reported by The Star. “I was seated at the back but I could imagine the intense pressure at that moment.”
Herry IP, however, isn’t solely focused on this single match. Looking beyond the All England Open, his primary goal is to guide Chia and Soh back to the pinnacle of world badminton – reclaiming the world title they won in 2022. He plans to focus on honing their mental fortitude, teaching them to maintain their calm in the most tense moments of competition. This strategic focus suggests a long-term vision for the pair, extending beyond immediate tournament results.
The upcoming months are crucial for Chia and Soh. Following the All England Open, they will defend their title at the Asian Championships in Ningbo, China, from April 7-12. They are also slated to lead Malaysia’s charge in the Thomas Cup Finals in Horsens, Denmark, from April 24-May 3, highlighting their importance to the national team. The World Championships in New Delhi, from August 17-23, remain the ultimate target, where Herry hopes to see them lift the trophy once again.
The match against Kim Won-ho and Seo Seung-jae presents a formidable challenge. The Korean pair are the reigning champions and are known for their aggressive playing style and unwavering consistency. Chia and Soh will need to execute their game plan flawlessly, minimizing unforced errors and capitalizing on any opportunities that arise. The ability to handle the pressure and maintain composure, as Herry IP emphasized, will be paramount to their success.
The All England Open holds a special place in the hearts of badminton fans worldwide, and for Malaysia, it represents a legacy of excellence. A victory for Chia and Soh would not only end a 19-year wait but also reignite the passion for the sport across the nation. The eyes of Malaysia, and indeed the badminton world, will be firmly fixed on Birmingham this Sunday, as Chia and Soh attempt to write a new chapter in the tournament’s storied history.
Herry IP, despite his disappointment at not being able to secure the All England title this year, remains optimistic about the future. “I was not able to help them get the All England title but I want them to win the world title next,” he stated, according to NST Online. This unwavering belief in his players underscores his commitment to their development and his ambition to restore Malaysia to its former glory in the world of badminton.
The final promises to be a thrilling encounter, a clash of titans between two of the world’s best men’s doubles pairs. For Aaron Chia and Soh Wooi Yik, it’s more than just a match; it’s an opportunity to etch their names into Malaysian badminton history and bring joy to a nation yearning for a championship victory.
What’s Next: Aaron Chia and Soh Wooi Yik will face Kim Won-ho and Seo Seung-jae in the All England Open final on Sunday, March 8, 2026, at the Utilita Arena Birmingham. Following the tournament, they will prepare for the Asian Championships in Ningbo, China, in April.
What are your predictions for the final? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
