KUALA LUMPUR: National men's doubles head coach Herry IP has declared that Malaysia's title charge is "well and alive" ahead of the Paris World Championships from August 25–31.
Herry believes in what the Malaysian shuttlers are capable of, having guided Indonesia to five men's doubles world titles.
"I am hopeful that our players can rise to the occasion and overcome the challenges ahead. There is a chance (to win a second world title)," said Herry.
"Although the draw is tough, especially with three Malaysian pairs stacked in the same half and potential early clashes between our pairs, we can still progress."
However, they face a tricky third-round clash against compatriots Wan Arif Junaidi-Yap Roy King before a projected quarter-final meeting with either
Aaron-Wooi Yik could run into compatriots and world No. 3 Goh Sze Fei-Nur Izzudin Rumsani in the semi-finals,
World No. 7 Man Wei Chong-Tee Kai Wun also face a major test, with a likely quarter-final against South Korea's world No. 1 Kim Won Ho-Seo Seung Jae.
Meanwhile, former world No. 1 Tan Boon Heong has backed Aaron-Wooi Yik to go all the way, citing their strong track record at major events, including their bronze at the 2024 Olympics, held at the same Adidas Arena where the World Championships will be staged.
He believes that Aaron-Wooi Yik's main threats, Olympic silver medallists Wei Keng-Wang Chang are not in good form.
"It's definitely possible for Aaron–Wooi Yik to win a second world title. In major tournaments, they play with more confidence. And they've already won two Olympic medals. They can handle that kind of pressure," said Boon Heong.
"The China pair's form has declined, and even the Indian pair aren't at their strongest right now.
"I still consider it a favourable draw. But when the draw looks easy, it can play tricks and it's easy to lose focus. Mistakes will happen, they just have to stay sharp."
Aaron-Wooi Yik have been on a good run, winning three titles: the Asian Championships, Thailand and Singapore Opens.
With the legendary Herry guiding them, things are falling in place for Aaron-Wooi Yik to nail the world title on Merdeka Day.
