The gutsy duo defeated world No 3 and reigning world champs, South Koreans Kang Min Hyuk-Seo Seung Jae in straight games, 21-19, 21-15 at the Yokohama Arena.

With their victory, Sze Fei-Izzuddin bagged the US$62,900 (RM275,226) prize at the Badminton World Tour Super 750 Series, the largest in their career so far.

Their success coincides with the Badminton Association of Malaysia’s (BAM) decision to allow Sze Fei and Izzuddin to become professionals.

At its council meeting yesterday, BAM said it respects their decision and has agreed to release them effective Sept 1.

Previously, the duo had won four titles at the Badminton World Tour Super 100 and 300 Series – the German Open (2022) and the US Open, Kaohsiung Masters and Abu Dhabi Masters (all in 2023).

With today’s win, the world No 12 are only the fourth Malaysian pair to win the Japan Open men’s doubles title to date.

Sze Fei-Izzuddin displayed extreme confidence and accuracy in the final as they led all the way in both games, before winning the match in 43 minutes. The Malaysians’ superb defence often rattled the reigning world men’s doubles champions.

It was a difficult match for both pairs as they kept the shuttle as low as possible throughout the match, making it difficult to go for the kill.

Spurred on by chants of “Malaysia Boleh” from their supporters, Sze Fei-Izzuddin rose to the occasion by sending accurate cross-court returns, often catching their opponents on the wrong foot.

The Malaysian pair had the better of the exchange and won the first game 21-19 in 21 minutes.

The Malaysians kept their cool and easily won the second game 21-15 in 22 minutes, after having forced the South Koreans into making many errors.