Apriyani Rahayu Officially Plays in Mixed Doubles

JAKARTA - The women's doubles specialist, Apriyani Rahayu, will enter a new phase in her career in the world of badminton. She officially switched from the women's doubles sector to mixed doubles.

The 2020 Olympic gold medalist will appear with his new partner, Dejan Ferdinansyah, in future tournaments. Their debut as a pair will be marked at the Taipei Open 2026 on July 28-August 2.

Rionny Mainaky as the mixed doubles coach said that the two shuttles were finally united after Dejan made a request for the coaching team to combine him with Apriyani in mixed doubles.

"Apri is also willing to move sectors. So, I discussed with Karel Mainaky, head coach, and Head of Training and Achievement of the Indonesian Badminton Association, it was finally approved," said Rionny in a statement received.

He further said that Apriyani had started training with the mixed doubles sector since the beginning of this week.

"I see his desire, enthusiasm, and focus are very good. With enough preparation time, I think the adaptation and habituation of playing in mixed doubles can go fast," said Rionny.

Rionny emphasized that Dejan/Apri was not a trial couple, but there would be high targets in the future. He hopes that the two can answer with high commitment and responsibility because they are experienced players.

"With the presence of Apri and all his experiences and achievements, I also hope to increase motivation and positive competition for other couples," he said.

The decision to combine Dejan with Apriyani made Bernadine Anindya Wardana replace the pair with Verrell Yustin Mulia. Bernadine is Dejan's previous partner.

Verrell/Bernadine are also scheduled to debut at the 2026 Taipei Open. The two new formations are expected to start their journey well in the BWF Super 300 event.