Malaysian mixed doubles stars Goh Soon Huat and Lai Shevon Jemie saw their impressive run at the Indonesia Open 2026 come to a heartbreaking end after a dramatic quarter-final defeat to French fourth seeds Thom Gicquel and Delphine Delrue at the iconic Istora Senayan.
The world No. 12 Malaysian pair were left devastated after falling 21-15, 18-21, 20-22 in a gripping 70-minute battle that swung dramatically in the closing moments.
Soon Huat and Shevon looked destined for a place in the semi-finals after producing a composed and disciplined display in the opening game.
The experienced Malaysian duo controlled the rallies, dictated the pace, and showcased excellent court coverage to claim the first game 21-15.
Their confidence carried into the second game, where they continued to trouble the higher-seeded French combination and appeared well-positioned to secure victory in straight games.
However, Gicquel and Delrue gradually raised their intensity and began applying sustained pressure.
The turning point came late in the second game when the French pair overturned a narrow deficit at 17-18, winning crucial exchanges to take the game 21-18 and force a deciding third set.
With momentum shifting, the quarter-final transformed into a tense battle of nerves.
The deciding game produced one of the most dramatic finishes of the tournament.
At 20-18, the Malaysian pair stood just one point away from booking their place in the last four.
With a semi-final berth seemingly within reach, disaster struck.
Unable to convert either of their match points, Soon Huat and Shevon watched as the French duo reeled off four consecutive points to complete a remarkable comeback and snatch victory 22-20.
The painful collapse ended Malaysia’s challenge in the mixed doubles event and denied the independent pair what would have been one of their most significant results of the season.
While the defeat will undoubtedly sting, the performance also highlighted the quality and competitiveness that Soon Huat and Shevon have consistently displayed on the international stage.
For long periods, the Malaysians matched and often outplayed one of the tournament’s top-seeded pairs, demonstrating the form that has made them one of Malaysia’s most reliable mixed doubles combinations.
Unfortunately, badminton at the highest level is often decided by the finest margins, and in Jakarta those margins ultimately favoured the French partnership.
Credit Photo : BERNAMA
