KUALA LUMPUR: Badminton legend Koo Kien Keat felt that the World Championships has lost its prestige since becoming an annual event in 2006, but yet could favour Malaysia in the hunt for titles.

The tournament shifted from its biennial format after the 2005 edition in Anaheim, the United States. This year's World Championships will be held in Paris from Aug 25 to Aug 31.

Kien Keat, who was runner-up in the 2010 edition in Paris with Tan Boon Heong, now views the World Championships as similar to a Super 1000 event on the World Tour.

The world meet has become more accessible and unpredictable.

"The World Championships isn't as prestigious as it used to be, now that it's held every year. It's like a Super 1000 event, anyone can win it," said Kien Keat.

"It was harder to win when it was an biennial event, and there was more pressure. Back then, you might only get few chances in your career. Now, a strong pair can qualify for three editions in one Olympic cycle, and more shots at title.

"I believe our pairs won't be burdened by pressure and have a better shot, especially Aaron-Wooi Yik, if they can keep the momentum they've shown on the World Tour this year.

"They've won it before, and that experience will be valuable in Paris."

The increased frequency of the World Championships allowed China's Lin Dan to reach seven finals and win an unmatched five world titles between 2006 and 2017.

Besides reigning world No. 2 Aaron-Wooi Yik, Malaysia will also field world No. 3 Goh Sze Fei-Nur Izzuddin Rumsani, world No. 7 Man Wei Chong-Tee Kai Wun, and debutants Wan Arif Junaidi-Yap Roy King (No. 22).

Aaron-Wooi Yik won the world title in 2022 and finished third in 2023. They bagged the Asia Championships, Thailand and the Singapore Opens this year.

Their recent run to the China Open final, a Super 1000 event, show that they are peaking at the right time.