Kang Khai Xing and Aaron Tai Upset Chinese Duo at Japan Open

In a remarkable display of resilience, Malaysian badminton duo Kang Khai Xing and Aaron Tai achieved a significant upset on the opening day of the 2026 Japan Open. They overcame China's seventh-seeded men's doubles pair, Chen Bo Yang and Liu Yi, in a thrilling comeback match, winning 11-21, 26-24, 21-15.

The match took place at the Tokyo Metropolitan Gymnasium, where the unseeded Malaysians initially struggled, losing the first game decisively. However, they rallied in the second game, saving crucial game points to secure a narrow victory that shifted the momentum in their favor. With renewed confidence, they dominated the final game, showcasing effective attacking strategies and solid defense.

This victory is particularly meaningful as it marks one of the last tournaments for Kang and Tai as a pair, with upcoming changes in the Malaysian men's doubles lineup. They will next face the Taiwanese team of Lee Jhe-Huei and Yang Po-Hsuan in the round of 16, presenting another challenging match ahead.

In men's singles, Malaysia's Leong Jun Hao also progressed by defeating Chi Yu Jen of Chinese Taipei in straight games, 21-19, 21-16. Jun Hao, ranked world No. 30, improved his career record against Chi to four wins from seven encounters. He credited recent training for his performance and will now face France's fifth seed Christo Popov in the next round, a match expected to test his consistency and endurance.