Sze Fei commits to pro career with Izzuddin under coach Kok Siang

PETALING JAYA: Former world No. 1 men’s doubles pair Goh Sze Fei-Nur Izzuddin Rumsani have swiftly dismissed speculation that they intend to return to the Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM).

Sze Fei-Izzuddin, who will begin their campaign in Changzhou this week as the reigning China Open champions, stressed that they remain fully committed to their status as professional players.

The rumours had suggested that the duo were planning a return to the national team to train under experienced Indonesian coach Herry Iman Pierngadi. However, Sze Fei hit back, stating that they are still loyal to their current coach, Teo Kok Siang.

“We wish to clarify that we are happy with our status as a professional pair and reaching the Japan Open final has further strengthened our confidence and drive to continue improve under the guidance of our coach, Teo Kok Siang.

“Our relationship with BAM remains great, and we always appreciate BAM for the support shown to us throughout our stint with them.

“Hope this can stop the untrue rumours out there,” said Sze Fei, who posted the statement on his social media.

Rejoining the national team won’t be a simple move for Sze Fei-Izzuddin, given their existing sponsorship deal with Victor.

Nevertheless, BAM remain open to allowing them to train alongside other players at the Academy Badminton Malaysia (ABM), although it is understood that no official request has been made by the pair so far.

Sze Fei-Izzuddin officially left BAM in September last year, when they were ranked world No. 12.

Since turning professional, the duo have impressed with their performances, making history by winning the China Open last year.

They went on to add the Arctic Open title to their collection before finishing as runners-up at the BWF World Tour Finals in December.

Just last week in Tokyo, Sze Fei-Izzuddin finished as runners-up at the Japan Open, and they will be looking to build on that momentum when they open their China Open campaign today against South Korea’s Kang Min-hyuk-Ki Dong-ju in the first round.