According to AFP, Malaysian men’s doubles pair Aaron Chia and Soh Wooi Yik advanced to the final of the 2026 World Championships in New Delhi, India, after defeating top-seeded opponents Kim Won-ho and Seo Seung-jae 21-17, 21-18 in the semifinal at the Indira Gandhi Indoor Stadium on Saturday, August 22, 2026. Despite the victory and participating in their sixth appearance at the tournament, the world number four pair stated they still feel like underdogs without any special pressure or targets.
Underdog Status and Semifinal Victory Over Top Seeds
Aaron Chia and Soh Wooi Yik secured their spot in the title match by overcoming tournament top seeds Kim Won-ho and Seo Seung-jae in straight games. According to AFP reporting, the semifinal clash concluded with scores of 21-17 and 21-18 in favor of the Malaysian duo. Speaking to Berita Harian, Aaron Chia explained that maintaining an underdog mentality helps the pair play freely. “I think we played as a team that was not favored,” Aaron said, as cited by Juara.net. “We came here without pressure, without any targets, and just wanted to do our best.”
Familiarity with the World Championships Stage
Bolasport.com reports that this tournament marks the third time the pair, who train under coach Herry Iman Pierngadi (Herry IP), has successfully guaranteed a medal at the World Championships. In 2022, Aaron Chia and Soh Wooi Yik claimed the gold medal to become world champions, followed by a bronze medal finish the following year. Because they have competed in six editions of the event, the atmosphere of reaching the final four no longer brings extreme nervousness or a sense of novelty. According to Bolasport.com, coach Herry IP has given an ultimatum requiring them to win the world title again this year before their partnership is split up.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who did Aaron Chia and Soh Wooi Yik defeat in the 2026 World Championships semifinal?
According to AFP, they defeated the top-seeded South Korean pair Kim Won-ho and Seo Seung-jae in straight games, 21-17, 21-18.
What ranking do Aaron Chia and Soh Wooi Yik hold?
According to Juara.net, the Malaysian pair holds the number four ranking in the BWF standings and is the number one men’s doubles pair in Malaysia according to Bolasport.com.
Who is the coach of Aaron Chia and Soh Wooi Yik?
According to Juara.net and Bolasport.com, they are coached by Herry Iman Pierngadi, also known as Herry IP.
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