The presence of former national men’s doubles star Koo Kien Keat has given a major confidence lift to professional pair Goh Sze Fei–Nur Izzuddin Rumsani, who advanced to the second round of the Malaysia Open 2026 at Axiata Arena.
World No.7 Sze Fei–Izzuddin avenged last season’s disappointment by defeating Denmark’s Daniel Lundgaard/Mads Vestergraard in straight games, 21–15, 21–13, avoiding another first-round exit and leveling their head-to-head record at 2–2.
The duo credited BAM and Kien Keat for their preparation, which included four days of training at the Badminton Academy of Malaysia alongside national pairs such as Aaron Chia–Soh Wooi Yik and Man Wei Chong–Tee Kai Wun. More importantly, Kien Keat also provided mental guidance and sat courtside as coach during the match.
Sze Fei praised Izzuddin’s performance, while Izzuddin said their victory came from playing boldly, calmly, and focusing fully on the match. They will next face either Choong Hon Jian–Muhammad Haikal Nazri or England’s Ben Lane–Sean Vendy for a place in the quarterfinals.
About the Author
