Malaysia’s badminton doubles pair Aaron Chia and Soh Wooi Yik are riding high after their record-breaking Olympic journey, sharing insights on their growth, teamwork, and aspirations in an exclusive interview with Sports Scene. The duo, who clinched a historic medal at the Paris Olympics, revealed how a strategic coaching shift and refined synergy propelled their victory at the Asia Championships in Ningbo earlier this year.
“Our new coach tailored strategies to our strengths, which unlocked a different level of confidence,” Chia said. Soh emphasized their improved consistency in high-pressure matches, particularly against rivals like Chinese duo Liang and Wang. “Competing in front of home crowds adds pressure, but it also pushes players to excel,” Chia noted, praising China’s robust badminton culture.
Off the court, the pair highlighted friendships with global peers, including players from the Chinese mainland. “We share laughs and stories – that camaraderie elevates the sport,” Soh remarked. With the Sudirman Cup and Los Angeles Olympics ahead, the duo aims to build on their momentum. “Team events unite us,” Chia added. “We want to make Malaysia proud again.”
