Kumamoto Masters 2024: Beat Leo/Bagas, Fajar/Rian Qualify For Final

Indonesian men's doubles pair Fajar Alfian/Muhammad Rian Ardianto (Photo: Doc. PBSI)

JAKARTA - The men's doubles pair Fajar Alfian/Muhammad Rian Ardianto qualified for the 2024 Kumamoto Masters final round, the tournament whose first edition was held last year did not participate.

Fajar/Rian secured their final match ticket after winning 21-18 and 21-13 over their compatriot Leo Rolly Carnando/Bagas Maulana on Saturday, November 16 afternoon WIB.

"We have been training together for a long time so we already know the character of each game. We try to implement the strategy well," Fajar said in a statement.

This is Fajar/Rian's first ticket to the final since the Singapore Open in May.

At that time, the 2024 All England champion had to settle for closing their journey as runners up.

Kumamoto Masters is Fajar/Rian's fifth tournament since the 2024 Paris Olympics.

In the previous four events, their furthest journey only reached the semifinals at the Denmark Open in October.

"The task has not been completed because there is still a final tomorrow and we want to perfect it with a title. Our last title at All England in March. It's been a long time," said Fajar.

In tomorrow's final, Fajar/Rian will meet sixth seed from Japan, Takuro Hoki/Yugo Kobayashi.

The pair went to the final after beating Malaysia's representative, Nur Mohd Azriyn Ayub Azriyn/Tan Wee Kiong.

This will be the eighth clash between Fajar/Rian and the host's representative. In the previous seven competitive clashes, Fajar/Rian won narrowly, 4-3.

"They must be supported by all the host supporters, so we will prepare them mentally. In addition, strategic readiness is also important. We will discuss again, analyze their game again," said Rian.