China Masters 2024: Hendra/Ahsan Last Tournament
JAKARTA Hendra Setiawan/Mohammad Ahsan immediately lost in the first round of the 2024 China Masters, which was their last tournament in this year's calendar.
The veteran couple lifted their suitcases from this event after losing two straight games 16-21 and 17-21 against their juniors, Sabar Karyaman Gutama/Mohammad Reza Pahlevi Isfahani, on Tuesday, November 19, 2024, afternoon WIB.
"This is our last tournament, this year. After this, take a break first. For all of our supporters, thank you for supporting so far," said Hendra in a statement.
The 2024 China Masters could be Hendra/Ahsan's last tournament before retiring. The couple are currently entering the end of their career.
Hendra had previously conveyed a pension sign in September 2024. At that time, he said he would discuss it with his family and those closest to him before making the decision to withdraw from badminton.
Ahsan after the defeat against Sabar/Reza then strengthened the pension signal. He said there would be the right time to announce it.
"We have decided in the future what it will be like, but we'll just have to wait. We want to meet first and discuss with the coach and administrator," he said.
During their active careers, the two badminton players achieved a number of brilliant achievements. Hendra is a gold medalist at the 2008 Beijing Olympics in the men's doubles with Markis Kido.
Meanwhile, when they were paired with Ahsan they made Indonesia proud by becoming world champion on three different occasions, namely 2013, 2015, and 2019.
In addition, the pair were also included in the group that won the 2020 Thomas Cup after beating China in the top party.