Indonesia To Thomas Cup Final, Fajar/Rian: Jojo's Victory Boosts Our Confidence

Indonesian men's doubles Fajar Alfian/Muhammad Rian Ardianto (Photo: Antara)

JAKARTA - Indonesian men's doubles Fajar Alfian/Muhammad Rian Ardianto admit that Jonatan Christie's (Jojo) win helped boost their confidence in their Thomas Cup semifinal match.

Taking place at Ceres Arena, Aarhus, Denmark, Saturday night, Fajar/Rian, who appeared in the fourth party, won a straight game 21-14, 21-14 over the new Danish pair Mathias Christiansen/Frederik Sogaard.

Previously in the third party, Jojo, Jonatan Christie's nickname, first defeated Anders Antonsen in three games with a score of 25-23, 15-21, 21-16.

"Jojo's previous victory made my performance with Rian more comfortable. Indonesia's 2-1 advantage over Denmark has added to our confidence to finish with a win," said Fajar, as reported by Antara, Sunday, October 17.

Furthermore, he also admits that he has such great motivation to make history on the Thomas Cup stage, which he has dreamed of since childhood.

"I used to dream of getting into the Thomas Cup. Now I can join the team and contribute to Indonesia's winning numbers," said Fajar.

Fajar/Rian said they were happy and grateful because apart from contributing to the winning numbers, they also helped bring the Garuda squad to the Thomas Cup final.

“We are grateful to have been able to lead Indonesia to the Thomas Cup final. Earlier we played more freely and really enjoyed the game," said Fajar.

In line with Fajar, Rian also admitted that he was happy with his performance with Fajar against Christiansen/Sogaard. For him, performing optimally is an obligation every time he is entrusted to compete.

“When trusted to go down as the second double, we have to maximize the performance by giving the best result. This victory means a lot to us, especially since this is the biggest team event. This victory, at least, can bring Indonesia to the highest ranks," said Rian.

The following are the complete results of the Thomas Cup semifinals

Indonesia vs Denmark (3-1).

Men's singles 1Anthony Sinisuka Ginting vs Viktor Axelsen 9-21, 15-21

Men's doubles 1Marcus Fernaldi Gideon/Kevin Sanjaya Sukamuljo vs Kim Astrup/Anders Skaarup Rasmussen 21-13, 10-21, 21-15

Men's singles 2Jonatan Christie vs Anders Antonsen 25-23, 15-21, 21-16

Men's doubles 2Fajar Alfian/Muhammad Rian Ardianto vs Mathias Christiansen/Frederik Sogaard 21-14, 21-14