KUALA LUMPUR: Chen Tang Jie-Toh Ee Wei went from near-breakup to world champions as they carved their names into history by delivering Malaysia’s first-ever mixed doubles crown — the perfect Merdeka gift in Paris on Sunday.
Just five months after a short-lived split, the world No. 4 pair produced the performance of their careers to overwhelm China‘s second seeds Jiang Zhen Bang-Wei Ya Xin 21-15, 21-14 in just 40 minutes at the Adidas Arena.
Tang Jie ripped off his shirt in celebration while Ee Wei wept on court, joined by jubilant coaches Rexy Mainaky and Nova Widianto.
It was a scene of redemption that might never have happened had the duo stuck to their decision to part ways earlier this year.
Spurred on by deafening chants of “Malaysia Boleh” from a sea of fans, the “Gangster Duo” rose to the occasion to claim the historic title.
For Ee Wei, it was the sweetest of Merdeka Day gifts.
“Overwhelmed, because if you get it, you are a world champion. This means a lot to us because it’s Merdeka Day,” she told the Badminton World Federation.
“We also got a full house of Malaysian fans supporting us here. We felt their power on the court and just kept going, fighting for every point.”
Tang Jie, whose relentless attacking game left the Chinese pair reeling, was lost for words.
“Actually, I can’t describe my feeling right now. I’m very glad and happy that we have become the world champions. Other people can call us world champions. Yes, world champions. It’s very, very meaningful for every player,” he said.
“Our mental preparation was very good. We didn’t think about winning or losing, just focused on enjoying the match and every moment.
“Their campaign wasn’t without drama. The pair were pushed to the brink in the last 16 against Indonesia’s Jafar Hidayatullah-Felisha Pasaribu before clawing back 14-21, 21-19, 21-17 — a turning point that restored their confidence.
“We were under a lot of pressure but overcame it by sticking to our plan,” said Ee Wei.
“In the final we just played with confidence, supported each other, and focused on every point.”
She also revealed a key change in mindset had proved decisive.
“Before this, we’d get frustrated after mistakes. Now, we just reset and focus on the next point.
“Our coach Nova also helped, always asking us to take a deep breath and clear our minds.”
From near-split to standing atop the world, Tang Jie-Ee Wei’s remarkable revival has broken Malaysia’s mixed doubles barrier — and delivered a Merdeka Day to cherish.
© New Straits Times Press (M) Bhd
