Goh Sze Fei–Nur Izzuddin, Kang Khai Xing–Aaron Tai and Jimmy Wong–Cheng Su Yin march on as Leong Jun Hao and Goh Soon Huat–Shevon Lai bow out in Tokyo
Malaysia will have three representatives in the quarter-finals of the DAIHATSU Japan Open 2026 after an impressive day in the Round of 16 saw two men’s doubles pairs and one mixed doubles pair book their places in the last eight.
The biggest headline came from mixed doubles newcomers Jimmy Wong and Cheng Su Yin, who produced one of the tournament’s biggest surprises by defeating sixth seeds Thom Gicquel–Delphine Delrue of France in straight games, 23-21, 24-22.
The Malaysian duo displayed remarkable composure in two tightly contested games, saving crucial points before sealing a memorable victory to continue their impressive run at the BWF World Tour Super 750 event.
Malaysia’s fifth-seeded men’s doubles combination Goh Sze Fei–Nur Izzuddin also continued their title challenge with a solid 21-18, 21-19 victory over Denmark’s experienced pair Kim Astrup–Anders S. Rasmussen.
The reigning Malaysian pair controlled the crucial moments in both games to secure a deserved place in the quarter-finals.
Youngsters Kang Khai Xing–Aaron Tai maintained their dream campaign with another commanding performance, defeating Chinese Taipei’s Lee Jhe-Huei–Yang Po-Hsuan 21-10, 21-15.
Fresh off their opening-round upset over China’s seventh seeds Chen Bo Yang–Liu Yi, the Malaysian pair once again demonstrated maturity beyond their years to reach the final eight.
However, it was the end of the road for Malaysia’s challenge in mixed doubles through Goh Soon Huat–Shevon Lai, who were beaten 14-21, 7-21 by China’s second seeds Jiang Zhen Bang–Wei Ya Xin.
In men’s singles, Leong Jun Hao fought bravely against France’s fifth seed Christo Popov, taking the opening game before eventually falling 21-16, 11-21, 17-21 in a hard-fought three-game encounter.
With three pairs safely through to the quarter-finals, Malaysia’s hopes at the Japan Open 2026 remain firmly alive as Goh Sze Fei–Nur Izzuddin, Kang Khai Xing–Aaron Tai, and Jimmy Wong–Cheng Su Yin continue their pursuit of silverware in Tokyo.
Credit Photo : BERNAMA
