KUALA LUMPUR: Chen Tang Jie-Toh Ee Wei lifted the nation’s Merdeka spirits with a stunning victory on Saturday, powering into the World Championships mixed doubles final in Paris.
The world No. 4 Malaysians silenced the partisan French crowd at the Adidas Arena, sweeping aside home favourites Thom Gicquel-Delphine Delrue 21-18, 21-16 in a 53-minute semi-final.
Their breakthrough came just moments after women’s doubles stars Pearly Tan and M. Thinaah booked their own place in the final, ensuring Malaysia will have two finalists at the Worlds for the first time in history.
“It’s not easy. This is the World Championships, and we managed to overcome things step by step,” Ee Wei told Badminton World Federation.
“Everything we went through made us stronger. They had the crowd behind them, but we stayed calm and gave our best.”
Tang Jie-Ee Wei, who only teamed up in November 2022, showed superb composure against Gicquel-Delrue and have looked sharper with every round in Paris.
Their on-court chemistry and communication were key in grinding down the French pair.
“I’m really thankful for those who stood by us when things were difficult,” Ee Wei added.
“A lot of people didn’t know the inside story, but we just focused on training and believed in what we were doing. It was tough not only for us, but also our families. So I really appreciate everyone who supported us.”
The Malaysians will face China‘s world No. 2 Jiang Zhen Bang and Wei Ya Xin in Sunday’s final.
The Chinese pair survived a thriller against compatriots Gu Xin Wa and Chen Fang Hui, edging it 11-21, 23-21, 21-18.
Tang Jie-Ee Wei trail 3-1 in their head-to-head against the Chinese, but Merdeka Day could be the perfect stage for Malaysia to finally claim a historic world title in mixed doubles.
“Of course, we are very happy. But the job is not done yet,” said Tang Jie.
“Now it’s about resting well, eating well and preparing for tomorrow. It’s a new day tomorrow.”
© New Straits Times Press (M) Bhd
