Fajar/Fikri Dedicated Victory To Iie Sumirat

JAKARTA - Indonesian mixed doubles, Fajar Alfian/Muhammad Shohibul Fikri, won the title at the 2025 China Open. This success then presented them to the national badminton legend, Iie Sumirat, who passed away on Tuesday, July 22, 2025.

The late Iie Sumirat is an athlete from the Indonesian badminton legend who emerged in the 70s era. This award was given by Fajar/Fikri especially because they both came from the SGS Bandung club.

"In particular, we present it to the Indonesian badminton legend from Bandung, the city of the two of us, who just passed away this week, Kang Iie Sumirat," Fajar said in an official statement from PBSI quoted Monday, July 28, 2025.

Fajar did not forget to express his gratitude for the support of all parties who continue to encourage them throughout their journey through various tournaments.

"We present this title to Indonesia, to PBSI, and to the coaches who have guided us with full awareness and perseverance, as well as all supporters who never stop supporting us," he said.

Fajar/Fikri won the title after defeating the second seed from Malaysia, Aaron Chia/Soh Wooi Yik with a score of 21-15, 21-14 in a 35-minute final match at the Olympic Sports Center Gymnasium, Changzhou, Sunday, July 27, 2025.

"Alhamdulillah, I am very grateful to be able to complete these two tournaments with quite good results. Actually, we also have expectations in Japan last week, but God has other plans and we are given sustenance to win here," said Fajar.

After winning points from the errors of the opponent who failed to return the shuttlecock, Fajar/Fikri immediately celebrated the title with a viral dance on the track which is now popular on social media as a symbol of passion and cohesiveness.

From a technical point of view, Fajar said that their success could not be separated from the consistency of the strategy from the early stages to the final.

"We haven't changed much of the pattern of the game from the first half to the final. The key is to play tactically and master the front game. With windy field conditions and fast shuttlecocks, controlling the front ball is very important."

"The two of us who are playmaker types can handle it well," said Fajar.

Meanwhile, Fikri called this victory a surprise and emotional experience for him.

"The key to our victory is of course confidence in our own abilities, communication with Fajar and good coaches. I didn't think I could win, I didn't know what to say," said Fikri.