Razif hopes to see Malaysia flex doubles muscle

KUALA LUMPUR: With the home challenge well armed with many world-class pairs, badminton legend Datuk Razif Sidek hopes they can end the country's long wait for a title at the Malaysia Open from Jan 6-11.

Razif believes home advantage and the status of the Super 1000 tournament should serve as strong motivation for Malaysian players to raise their intensity after years of falling short in the tournament.

Malaysia's main hopes at this year's edition lie in the doubles events, led by world mixed doubles champions Chen Tang Jie-Toh Ee Wei, men's doubles Aaron Chia-Soh Wooi Yik (world No. 2), Man Wei Chong-Tee Kai Wun (world No. 5), Goh Sze Fei-Nur Izzuddin Rumsani (world No. 7) and women's doubles Pearly Tan-M. Thinaah (world No. 2).

"This is the first tournament of the new year, and we are playing at home. The players should approach the tournament with a different mindset, being better prepared and ready to go all out," Razif said.

"They need to be more assertive and elevate their level of play."

The last Malaysian to reach the Malaysia Open final was Datuk Seri Lee Chong Wei who went on to lift the title in 2018.

Since then, Malaysian players have failed to reach the final despite several semi-final appearances.

Last year, Wei Chong-Kai Wun, Tang Jie-Ee Wei and Goh Soon Huat-Shevon Lai reached the semi-finals.

"We are hoping our representatives in men's doubles, women's doubles and mixed doubles can at least make it to the final," said Razif.