Goh/Izzuddin struggle to maintain world number 1 badminton ranking

Independent Malaysian doubles pair Goh Sze Fei/Nur Izzuddin are experiencing heavy pressure in maintaining their newly achieved world number one position — a historic achievement for Malaysia after nine years.

This accomplishment marks Malaysia’s first since Goh V Shem/Tan Wee Kiong held the top ranking in 2016. However, their independent player status and the burden of the highest ranking appear to be impacting their performance.

Unsatisfactory results are evident from their last two tournaments:

• Singapore Open 2025 – stopped in quarter-finals
• Indonesia Open 2025 – lost in quarter-finals against Sabar Karyaman Gutama/Moh Reza Pahlevi Isfahani

The defeat at Indonesia Open proved most painful — the Malaysian pair led 19-17 in the deciding set but ultimately surrendered with scores of 19-21, 21-9, 19-21.