KUALA LUMPUR: World No. 12 Goh Sze Fei-Nur Izzuddin Rumsani are set to turn professional next month after parting ways with the Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM).
The 27-year-old pair will play their final tournament as national players at the Korea Open next week. And today, Sze Fei-Izzuddin defeated Indonesia's Leo Rolly Carnando-Bagas Maulana 21-19, 21-17 to reach the Japan Open final.
BAM secretary general Datuk Kenny Goh confirmed that the national body is not standing in Sze Fei-Izzuddin's way and has released them unconditionally.
Kenny explained that it was Sze Fei-Izzuddin who had requested to leave the national team.
"They requested to go independent, which is not something new; we've done it in the past," said Kenny after a BAM council meeting today.
"Previously, we've released established players like Koo Kien Keat-Tan Boon Heong and Goh V Shem-Tan Wee Kiong.
"After thoughtful discussion, we understand and respect their decision to pursue their future independently. We agreed to release them as of Sept 1, with their last tournament being the Korea Open."
Kenny stressed that BAM will still consider Sze Fei-Izzuddin for selection in major team events such as the Thomas Cup and multi-sport Games.
"We wish them the very best and assure that their services will be called upon whenever needed to play for the country."
BAM's decision to release Sze Fei-Izzuddin was anticipated, given their tendency to release players in their late 20s in recent years to optimize resources.
This move serves as a win-win situation for both the national body and the players.
Izzuddin-Sze Fei can now start afresh with a new approach to qualify for the Los Angeles Olympics. Still at the peak of their performance and popular among fans, they should be able to attract sponsorships to support their cause. It wouldn't be surprising if major brands such as Victor or Li Ning made moves to sign them.
For BAM, their coaches can now channel resources into developing other up-and-coming players into world-beaters. The men's doubles department is not short on talent, with four other established pairs at their disposaL.
Besides world No. 3 Aaron Chia and Soh Wooi Yik, who recently extended their contracts through 2028, there are also No. 17 Man Wei Chong-Tee Kai Wun, No. 19 Choong Hon Jian-Haikal Nazri, No. 32 Wan Arif Junaidi-Yap Roy King and No. 76 Aaron Tai-Kang Khai Xing