World number two men’s doubles pair, Goh Sze Fei and Nur Izzuddin Rumsani began their India Open 2025 campaign on a high note, cruising into the second round after defeating compatriots Nur Mohd Azriyn Ayub and Tan Wee Kiong.
The 2024 China Open champions showcased their dominance as the higher-ranked pair, overcoming the world number 29 duo in straight sets, 21-16, 21-16.
This match also marked an opportunity for Sze Fei-Izzuddin to seek revenge after their previous loss to Azriyn-Wee Kiong in the second round of the 2024 Japan Masters. In that encounter, Azriyn-Wee Kiong stunned the world number two pair with a hard-fought 21-9, 23-21 victory.
Determined to turn the tables, Sze Fei-Izzuddin came out firing in the first set. The 2024 Arctic Open champions displayed a commanding performance, racing to an 11-5 lead at the interval. Despite some resistance from Azriyn-Wee Kiong, Sze Fei-Izzuddin maintained their composure to close the set 21-16.
The second set saw Azriyn-Wee Kiong adopt an aggressive approach, enabling them to edge ahead 11-8 at the interval. However, the world number two pair displayed their resilience, catching up to level the score at 12-12. From there, Sze Fei-Izzuddin shifted gears, neutralizing their opponents’ aggression and sealing the set 21-16 to secure their spot in the next round.
Sze Fei-Izzuddin will next face either fellow Malaysians Arif Junaidi and Yap Roy King or the German duo of Daniel Hess and Marvin Seidel in the second round. As the tournament progresses, the Malaysian top pair will aim to build on their strong start and maintain the momentum to add another title to their growing collection.
Credit Photo : BERNAMA
