Early heartbreak for Malaysian men's singles at India Open

KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia's challenge in the India Open men's singles ended today after Justin Hoh and Leong Jun Hao were knocked out in the first round in New Delhi.

The exit of the duo follows that of world No. 144 Zii Jia, who was eliminated from the Super 750 tournament at the Indira Gandhi Sports Complex on Tuesday.

World No. 39 Justin lost 21-17, 21-15 to China's Lu Guang Zu in 42 minutes.

Despite the defeat, the 21-year-old showed early intent by racing to a 14-10 lead in the opening game.

However, the world No. 15 Guang Zu used his experience to tighten his play and dictate the rallies in the second game to secure the win.

Earlier, world No. 23 Jun Hao retired during the second game against Japan's Yushi Tanaka.

Jun Hao struggled from the start, losing the first game 21-5.

He was trailing 8-3 in the second when he called for the match referee and retired.

National coach K. Yogendran said Jun Hao could not continue because he was ill.

"Jun Hao has high fever and that is why he had to retire from the match," said Yogendran.