Indonesian Derby: Fajar/Fikri vs Sabar/Reza at Japan Open 2025

All-Indonesian clash in the opening round of men’s doubles…

JAKARTA, July 10, 2025 – The Japan Open 2025 will immediately feature a high-stakes showdown in the first round of the men’s doubles draw as top Indonesian pair Fajar Alfian/Muhammad Rian Ardianto face fellow national teammates Sabar Karyaman Gutama/Moh. Reza Pahlevi Isfahani in an all-Indonesian derby.

This matchup draws attention as it pits two national training partners against each other on a BWF World Tour Super 750 stage. Fajar/Rian, currently ranked No. 6 in the world, come into the match as favorites thanks to their international experience and consistency.

Sabar/Reza pose a dangerous threat

While Sabar/Reza may be lower-ranked and less experienced, they are not to be underestimated. The duo has shown promising growth over the past year, collecting notable wins against seeded opponents at several Super 300 and Super 500 events.

Their last meeting with Fajar/Rian came at the Indonesia Masters 2023, where the senior pair won in straight games. However, with both teams in new form this season, an upset cannot be ruled out.

Crucial match in Indonesia’s men’s doubles depth chart

This encounter is also crucial within the context of Indonesia’s internal men’s doubles competition, especially as the national team enters a phase of regeneration. With veterans like Ahsan/Hendra nearing retirement, younger pairs such as Sabar/Reza are under the spotlight as potential long-term successors.

The PBSI coaching team is expected to watch this match closely as part of their ongoing evaluation for future international assignments, particularly in the lead-up to the 2025 World Championships and the Olympics.

Japan Open serves as key event toward season finale

As part of the BWF World Tour Super 750, the Japan Open 2025 is one of the most important tournaments heading into the final stretch of the season. It is also a critical stop in the Race to the Finals, meaning every win carries significant ranking implications.

With both pairs highly familiar with each other’s playing styles and strategies, this Indonesian derby is expected to deliver an intense, tactical battle on Tokyo’s courts.