
KUALA LUMPUR: Man Wei Chong-Tee Kai Wun are confident that new men's doubles coach Herry IP's expertise will help propel them into the world's top 10 this year.
The world No. 12 recently clinched the Indonesia Masters Super 500 title, earning praise from Herry, who closely monitored their progress in Jakarta.
Wei Chong-Kai Wun are currently Malaysia's second-ranked men's doubles pair behind world No. 5 Aaron Chia-Soh Wooi Yik.
Despite aiming for a top-10 breakthrough over the past two years, they have yet to achieve it.
With Herry's impressive track record — having developed Olympic and world champions during his three-decade tenure with Indonesia — the duo hope his guidance can elevate their game.
"We've been chasing a top-10 ranking for two years but haven't managed to achieve it yet," said Wei Chong.
"But this year, we are determined to make that breakthrough.
"Winning the Indonesia Masters was a good start, but there's still a long way to go. We only have one Super 500 title, while the top pairs have won multiple titles on the World Tour.
"Coach Herry has produced many world-class pairs in Indonesia, and we believe he can transform our careers and help us improve. Our goal is to progress well, deliver consistent results, and break into the top 10 this year."
Herry believes that both Aaron-Wooi Yik and Wei Chong-Kai Wun need about a year to reach the next level, while the rest of Malaysia's doubles pairs could take up to two years to establish themselves.
"Wei Chong-Kai Wun have the potential to be as strong as Aaron-Wooi Yik, but they need about a year to adapt and make the necessary improvements," said Herry.
"I watched them closely at the Indonesia Masters, and their victory is a great confidence booster. The upcoming Badminton Asia Mixed Team Championships (BAMTC) will be a test for them in the absence of Aaron-Wooi Yik.
"I believe they can deliver a crucial point against Indonesia."
Malaysia are in Group B with Indonesia, Hong Kong and Kazakhstan at the tournament in Qingdao on Feb 11-16. The top two teams will advance to the quarter-finals.
Wei Chong-Kai Wun are set for a key showdown against world No. 24 Shohibul Fikri-Daniel Marthin — a match that could be pivotal in Malaysia's bid to upset second-seeded Indonesia.