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AICHI – National men's singles shuttler Leong Jun Hao's victory over world No. 1 Jonatan Christie was not enough to keep Malaysia's challenge alive as the national team bowed out in the quarter-finals of the men's team badminton event at the Aichi-Nagoya 2026 Asian Games today.
Malaysia lost 2-3 to Indonesia at the Ichinomiya City Municipal Gymnasium, ending its hopes of advancing to the semi-finals and ending the country's men's team medal drought that has stretched back to the Incheon 2014 Asian Games.
Jun Hao gave Malaysia an early boost after beating Jonatan 20-22, 21-12, 21-17 in a three-set battle.
However, Indonesia moved back in front when men's doubles pair Goh Sze Fei-Nur Izzuddin Mohd Rumsani lost to Fajar Alfian-Muhammad Shohibul Fikri 15-21, 21-19, 10-21 before Alwi Farhan extended Indonesia's lead by defeating Justin Hoh 21-19, 21-19.
Malaysia fought back to level the tie at 2-2 after Aaron Chia-Tee Kai Wun defeated Leo Rolly Carnando-Daniel Marthin 17-21, 21-16, 21-13 in another three-set battle.
However, Eogene Ewe could not complete the comeback, losing 11-21, 11-21 to Moh Zaki Ubaidillah in the deciding match to confirm Indonesia's 3-2 victory.
Jun Hao, who pulled off the upset against Jonatan, said a slow start made it difficult for him to find his rhythm, but he managed to adjust his game in the second set.
“In the early part of the game, I felt my rhythm wasn't quite working, and when I fell far behind, I tried to chase back until I managed to secure game points in the first set.
“Even though I lost the first set, I feel that helped me overcome the pressure and know what to do in the second set. After finding my own rhythm, my game became much smoother,” he said after the match.
The defeat means Malaysia remains without a men's team medal since winning bronze at the Incheon 2014 Asian Games.
Malaysia has also never won gold in the men's team event at the Asian Games, with its best results being silver medals at the Bangkok 1966 and Beijing 1990 editions. –BERNAMA
