KUALA LUMPUR: Former national shuttler Goh Liu Ying admitted Chen Tang Jie-Toh Ee Wei’s historic World Championships triumph left her with bittersweet emotions — as the duo achieved something she never could.
On Sunday, world No. 4 Tang Jie-Ee Wei stunned China‘s second seeds Jiang Zhen Bang-Wei Ya Xin 21-15, 21-14 at the Adidas Arena in Paris to capture Malaysia’s first-ever world mixed doubles crown.
“I never managed to win a medal at the World Championships,” said Liu Ying, who partnered Tang Jie to win the India International in 2017.
“So when I saw Tang Jie-Ee Wei do it, it felt like they were fulfilling something I couldn’t achieve in my playing days.”
While acknowledging the emotional pull of the moment, Liu Ying, the 2016 Rio Olympic silver medallist with Chan Peng Soon, was quick to underline the pair’s success as the product of meticulous preparation and tactical maturity.
“They went in with a clear game plan. You could see how they anticipated the Chinese pair’s tactical switches. Even when the opponents tried to change strategy, Tang Jie-Ee Wei were ready.
“They didn’t give them any chance to settle.”
She believes that adaptability has become a defining trait for the “Gangster Duo”, especially in a discipline where momentum can swing with a single rally.
“Preparation and the ability to respond in real time make all the difference at this level. That’s what set them apart in Paris,” she said.
Despite her glowing praise, Liu Ying warned that this milestone should not be seen as the final destination.
“They’ve done a good job, but this is just the start. There’s still a long way to go, and I hope they keep the fire burning.”
Meanwhile, former doubles ace Vivian Hoo hailed the pair’s victory as a Merdeka gift to remember.
“It was a super performance and truly a proud moment, not just for them but for the country as well, especially on National Day.
They took their opportunities well and produced a brave showing. Thumbs up for the performance today.”
Before Tang Jie-Ee Wei’s world crown, Malaysia’s best result in mixed doubles was a bronze from Koo Kien Keat-Wong Pei Tty in 2006.
This is also Malaysia’s first world title in three years, following Aaron Chia-Soh Wooi Yik’s men’s doubles triumph in 2022.
© New Straits Times Press (M) Bhd
