Cheered on by the capacity crowd, the world No 2 pair defeated Indonesian pair Fajar Alfian-Muhammad Shohibul Fikri 23-21, 21-18 in a thrilling encounter that lasted 50 minutes at the Axiata Arena in Bukit Jalil, Kuala Lumpur.
Aaron-Wooi Yik will be hoping to break the 12-year title drought in the men’s doubles for Malaysia.
The last time Malaysia won the title was in 2014 through Goh V Shem-Lim Khim Wah.
For Aaron-Wooi Yik, their seventh appearance at a World Tour Super 1000 final amounts to a credible achievement. They were runners-up in their six previous finals.
It represents a major turnaround for the pair after being knocked out in the first round at the Malaysia Open last year.
Their victory today was their second win against the Indonesian pair in four encounters so far. Credit should be given to Fajar-Shohibul as they have done extremely well despite partnering only nine months ago.
Aaron-Wooi Yik had the best year in their career last year, entering six World Tour finals and winning three titles namely Badminton Asian Championships, Thailand Open and Singapore Open.
It’s 50-50 tomorrow, says Aaron
Speaking to Bernama after the match, Aaron expressed delight at returning to a back-to-back final on home soil, recalling last year’s 12-21, 21-15, 16-21 loss to compatriots Man Wei Chong-Tee Kai Wun in the Malaysia Masters.
Looking ahead to tomorrow’s final showdown, Aaron believes both pairs have a fair chance, pointing to their even 1-1 head-to-head record.
“Last year they (Won Ho-Seung Jae) were on fire, but this is the first tournament this year. I see it as 50–50 tomorrow. However, we have the advantage playing at home,” he told reporters.
Wooi Yik admitted the pressure will be high for the final but said they intend to enjoy the game rather than overthink it.
Their opponents tomorrow, Won Ho-Seung Jae, progressed to their second consecutive Malaysia Open final after overturning an opening-game deficit to beat England’s Ben Lane-Sean Vendy 8-21, 21-11, 21-18.
Seung Jae blamed a slow start for the early setback, while Won Ho has his sights firmly set on defending the title.