KUALA LUMPUR: Goh Sze Fei–Nur Izzuddin Rumsani held their nerve to keep their place at the summit of the world rankings — and in doing so, ensured they remain the leading pair in what is now a historic Malaysian one-two in men's doubles.
The world No. 1 duo survived a major scare at the Indonesia Open today, rallying to beat world No. 28 compatriots Nur Mohd Azriyn Ayub–Tan Wee Kiong 21-14, 16-21, 21-14 in a tense second-round clash at the Istora Senayan.
Had they lost, Sze Fei–Izzuddin would have been overtaken by fellow Malaysians Aaron Chia–Soh Wooi Yik, who are projected to move up to No. 2 despite a first-round exit, thanks to the rolling points system and key upsets in the draw.
But by advancing to the quarter-finals, Sze Fei–Izzuddin retained enough points to hold onto top spot with a projected total of 91,090 — narrowly ahead of Aaron–Wooi Yik's 89,870.
Sze Fei–Izzuddin could now look to extend their lead depending on how far they go in Jakarta.
It's still a landmark moment for Malaysian badminton — with two pairs set to be officially ranked No. 1 and No. 2 in the world when the new rankings are updated next Tuesday, a feat never before achieved in the country's storied history in men's doubles.
