National Coach Urges Patience as Aaron Tai and Yap Roy King Forge Their Own Path
National men’s doubles coach Herry Iman Piengardi has urged badminton fans to temper expectations for rising pair Aaron Tai and Yap Roy King, warning that comparisons to established world-class pairings are premature. The young duo have drawn external comparisons to South Korea’s world No. 1 pair Kim Won Ho and Seo Seung Jae, while 20-year-old Aaron’s left-handed, attacking style has prompted fans to liken him to former Olympic silver medallist Yap Kim Hock.
Physical Build Versus Playing Style
While physical similarities have fueled speculation among supporters, the coaching staff maintains that generational comparisons overlook fundamental differences on the court. Roy King, 25, is the nephew of Yap Kim Hock, who partnered Cheah Soon Kit to secure men’s doubles silver medals at the 1996 Atlanta Olympics and the 1997 Glasgow World Championships. Despite the familial tie and similar stature, Herry noted that Aaron and the elder Yap employ distinct tactical approaches during matches.
“They have just started as a pair and have a long way to go. I hope the fans can be patient and not jump into any comparisons. Aaron-Roy King are creating their own style of play,” Herry said. “They still have their shortcomings, and we have to give them time to mature into a strong pair. They are still untested and haven’t faced all the top pairs. All I can say is they have a good future. Let them grow.”
Recent Tournament Results and Form
The partnership experienced a breakthrough last month at the Arctic Open in Vantaa, Finland, where Aaron and Roy King captured the Super 500 title. That momentum met resistance in subsequent outings. Defeats against compatriot world No. 4 pair Aaron Chia and Soh Wooi Yik at the Denmark Open, followed by a loss to South Korea’s Kim Won Ho and Seo Seung Jae at the French Open, halted their upward trajectory.
The pair rebounded at the Hylo Open, securing victories against Indonesia’s world No. 7 pair Sabar Karyaman and Moh Reza Isfahani, alongside Taiwan’s 15th-ranked duo Chiu Hsiang Chieh and Wang Chi Lin, to advance to the semi-finals. Their run concluded against Denmark’s world No. 26 pair Christian Faust Kjaer and Rasmus Kjaer, who ultimately claimed the tournament title.
Upcoming Schedule at Kumamoto and Hong Kong
Aaron Tai and Yap Roy King will bypass this week’s Korea Open before returning to international competition at the Kumamoto Masters, scheduled for Nov 10-15, followed by the Hong Kong Open from Nov 17-22.
Worth a look
