Malaysian badminton star Ong Yew Sin may be preparing for an unexpected new chapter in his career: a mixed doubles partnership with his wife, former Japanese international Aya Ohori. The prospect has stirred excitement among fans and analysts, as the duo could become a compelling new force on the court.
Aya Ohori, a retired world No. 7 in women’s singles, brings elite-level skill and court intelligence that could translate effectively to mixed doubles. Her finesse and attacking game, combined with Yew Sin’s proven doubles expertise, make them a promising pairing.
The potential collaboration comes after Yew Sin’s long-standing partnership with Teo Ee Yi ended. Together, Yew Sin and Ee Yi achieved notable success, including a bronze medal at the 2021 World Championships in Huelva, Spain. Ee Yi has already moved on, signing with Felet and confirming participation at the Thailand Open with new partner Chia Wei Jie. Yew Sin, under contract with Li-Ning, is holding off on tournament play as he finalizes his next steps.
While primarily a men’s doubles player, Yew Sin has valuable mixed doubles experience. His previous partnerships include former Olympic silver medallist Goh Liu Ying, with whom he reached the quarter-finals of the 2022 Korea Open, as well as stints with Shevon Lai, Joyce Choong, and S. Kisona. This history demonstrates his adaptability and readiness to return to the discipline.
Ohori has maintained her fitness since retiring from professional play, leaving the door open for a return to the court. Her last mixed doubles appearance was at the 2011 World Junior Championships with Naotaka Sekiguchi, giving her prior experience in the format.
Should the pairing come to fruition, Yew Sin and Ohori could follow in the footsteps of successful Malaysian husband-and-wife teams, such as Goh Soon Huat and Shevon Lai, who reached world No. 3 last year. Shared understanding and communication, both on and off the court, could give them a unique competitive edge in mixed doubles.
The badminton world now waits for official confirmation, as the potential partnership promises to bring excitement, skill, and a distinctive “love match” energy to Malaysia’s mixed doubles scene.
