KUALA LUMPUR: Men's doubles Aaron Chia-Soh Wooi Yik face a crucial test in their bid to advance beyond the group stage at the World Tour Finals (WTF) in Hangzhou, starting Wednesday (Dec 11).
The world No. 5 are in Group B with world No. 4 Fajar Alfian-Muhammad Rian Ardianto, China's He Ji Ting-Ren Xiang Yu (No. 6) and Indonesia's Sabar Karyaman Gutama-Muhammad Reza Pahlevi Isfahani (No. 11).
Aaron-Wooi Yik's campaign hinges on their opener against Ji Ting-Xiang Yu on Wednesday, followed by a potentially decisive clash against Indonesia's Fajar-Rian on Thursday.
A poor start could leave the Malaysians needing a must-win result against the All England champions.
Despite being two-time Olympic bronze medallists, Aaron-Wooi Yik's track record at the WTF is underwhelming.
Since 2019, they have qualified for four of the last five editions but failed to progress beyond the group stage, winning only two of 12 matches.
Their last victory at the season finale came in 2020.
Their recent history against their group opponents does not inspire confidence.
They have lost their last two meetings with Ji Ting-Xiang Yu and fell to Fajar-Rian in the All England final in March — their sole clash this year.
Fajar-Rian, the former world No. 1, arrive in Hangzhou buoyed by their recent Kumamoto Masters triumph and are aiming to build on consecutive semi-final appearances at the WTF.
"Our target is to perform better than last year," Fajar told Indonesian media on Friday.
Rian added: "Strategy, strength, physical condition, and mental preparation are all crucial. In this WTF, we are up against the year's seven best pairs.
"Many are in excellent form, so we must remain vigilant."
Aaron-Wooi Yik must rediscover their form if they are to avoid another early exit and end their season on a high.