KUALA LUMPUR: World No. 3 Goh Sze Fei-Nur Izzuddin Rumsani believe their best is yet to come as they prepare to strike fear into their opponents at the Malaysia Open, which starts on Tuesday.
The men's doubles pair see room for improvement and are not entirely satisfied with their form despite an impressive 2024.
Although they have not disclosed their target for the Malaysia Open Super 1000, it is clear that Sze Fei-Izzuddin are determined to end Malaysia's title drought at the Axiata Arena.
Datuk Lee Chong Wei, now retired, was the last national shuttler to win the Malaysia Open, triumphing in the men's singles in 2018.
Sze Fei-Izzuddin have been in scintillating form, winning the Japan Open Super 750, China Open Super 1000 and Arctic Open Super 500, and finishing as runners-up at the World Tour Finals (WTF) last month.
Their consistent performances helped them dethrone world No. 6 Aaron Chia=Soh Wooi Yik as the nation's top-ranked pair.
While keeping their specific goals under wraps, Sze Fei said the focus would be on delivering their best.
"We have our target for this tournament, but I would rather not reveal it. We will be focusing on putting up our best performance at the Malaysia Open.
"We improved last year, but it is still not enough. We can do much better. Every match will be tough, and we need to stay focused on playing our best."
The duo's confidence during practice sessions at the Axiata Arena today suggests they are prepared to maintain their momentum.
However, Sze Fei-Izzuddin face a tough draw, with world No. 1 Kim Astrup-Anders Skaarup Rasmussen of Denmark and world No. 2 Liang Wei Keng-Wang Chang of China eager to win the title.
The Malaysian pair are expected to meet Astrup-Rasmussen, who defeated them twice at the WTF, in the semi-finals.
Meanwhile, Wei Keng-Wang Chang are likely to face Aaron-Wooi Yik in the quarter-finals before a potential semifinal clash against Indonesia's world No. 4 Fajar Alfian-Rian Ardianto.
The ability to handle pressure in crucial moments has been a key strength for Sze Fei-Izzuddin, raising hopes they could emulate Goh V Shem-Tan Wee Kiong, the last Malaysian duo to win the men's doubles crown in 2016.