Indonesia’s Fajar Alfian–Shohibul Fikri have issued a clear warning to the Malaysian men’s doubles contingent ahead of the Indonesia Masters, vowing to challenge the dominance of the top-seeded Malaysian pairs at the Super 500 event in Jakarta.
Malaysia may hold the top three seeds through Aaron Chia–Soh Wooi Yik, Man Wei Chong–Tee Kai Wun and Goh Sze Fei–Nur Izzuddin Rumsani, but history suggests success at the intimidating Istora Senayan is never guaranteed.
Fresh from forming their partnership in September, Fajar–Fikri will be making their first home appearance together and are eager to capitalise on the passionate Jakarta crowd.
“Our target is to become champions, but we know it won’t be easy. From Super 500 to Super 1000, only the best pairs are competing,” said Fikri.
Although Aaron–Wooi Yik defeated Fajar–Fikri en route to the Malaysia Open final earlier this month, the Indonesians believe home conditions could tilt the balance.
Several top pairs will be absent, including world No. 1 Kim Won Ho–Seo Seung Jae and India Open champions Liang Wei Keng–Wang Chang, but national doubles coach Herry IP expects a tough challenge.
“Winning at Istora is always difficult, even with strong pairs,” he said.
With Malaysian pairs spread across the draw, the Indonesia Masters promises another intense chapter in the regional men’s doubles rivalry.
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