Kuala Lumpur: Professional mixed doubles player Shevon Lai Jemie is ready to ‘split’ with her partner Goh Soon Huat temporarily if needed at the 2025 Sudirman Cup in Xiamen, China. Shevon said the situation could provide a new dimension for her in learning the playing style of other players at the tournament scheduled to be held at the Xiamen Olympic Sports Centre, Fenghuang Gymnasium from April 27 to May 4.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Shevon expressed her willingness to adapt to any situation for the benefit of the team, stating, “Of course, in any situation, when the team needs us to split, we are ready to do what is the best for the team.” She emphasized the educational value of playing with a different partner, noting that it offers an opportunity to learn and refresh. Despite being a senior player, Shevon is eager to support and guide junior players while remaining open to their insights.
Shevon, who is 31, highlighted her and Soon Huat’s current strong form ahead of the 2025 Sudirman Cup. Although they are ranked third in the world and are the top pair in the country, Shevon acknowledged the persistent pressure they face in Xiamen. She reflected on their improved handling of pressure, stating, “I think for me and Soon Huat, we’ve been through quite a lot but recently, we’ve been handling it much much better.”
Shevon expressed pride in representing Malaysia for the third time at the Sudirman Cup and is hopeful for a strong performance in Xiamen. Malaysia will compete in Group C, facing France on April 28, Australia on April 29, and third seed Japan on May 1. Only the top two teams from each group will advance to the quarter-finals.
Meanwhile, professional men’s doubles player Nur Izzuddin Rumsani is confident in the readiness of the national squad. He praised the quality of the pairs and their high chances of success at the Sudirman Cup 2025. The men’s doubles lineup includes Asian Badminton Championships champions Aaron Chia-Soh Wooi Yik and Man Wei Chong-Tee Kai Wun.
Goh Sze Fei, returning to the Academy Badminton Malaysia, expressed excitement about training under men’s doubles head coach Herry Iman Pierngadi. Herry, who began his duties on February 1, is renowned for coaching Olympic champions and brings extensive experience to the team.