Malaysia Is So Memorable For Fajar/Rian

Fajar Alfian/Muhammad Rian Ardianto won the Malaysia Open 2023. (Photo: Twitter/@INABadminton)

JAKARTA - The Indonesian pair, Fajar Alfian/Muhammad Rian Ardianto, won the Malaysia Open 2023. They defeated Chinese representatives, Liang Welkeng/Wang Chang, 21-18, 18-21, and 21-13, Sunday, January 15.

This is their first BWF Super 1000 title in 2023. Apart from that, this title adds to Fajar/Rian's sweet memories in Malaysia.

Previously, Fajar/Rian enjoyed the highest podium at the BWF Super 500 Malaysia Masters level event last year.

In last year's Malaysia edition when they were still in the BWF Super 750 category, Fajar/Rian also made it to the final round. Unfortunately at that time, they had to settle for being runners-up after being defeated by men's doubles from Japan, Takuro Hoki/Yugo Kobayashi.

Fajar said Malaysia was the location for a memorable match for their badminton career.

"In Malaysia, thank God, our fortune is always good. We are comfortable playing here, more or less the same as Indonesia. The food, the atmosphere, the match atmosphere, and most importantly the support at the stadium, which is always there for us if we don't play against the co-hosts," said Fajar after the match.

"I'm happy, thank God, at the beginning of 2023 we can win first place in Super 1000. Very grateful, hopefully in the future, it will be even better," he continued, as reported by Antara.

In the final match, Fajar/Rian appeared aggressive even though they faced tough opponents. They were able to come from behind in the second game.

Even though they admitted that their stamina had dropped, they were able to get up thanks to their determination and enthusiasm to win.

"The match was busy. In the first game, we were able to win but in the second game, we were conceded by their very good service. In the third game, our condition actually declined, but with great enthusiasm and determination we were able to maximize it and win the match," he said.

It is undeniable that today's proud victory increased their motivation and confidence to achieve other, more prestigious achievements.

"The meaning of this title certainly adds to our motivation to continue to contribute to Indonesia's achievements. We always want to be the best, always think positively and do our best and focus in every game," said Fajar.