In what is being hailed as the biggest upset of the 2025 Denmark Open so far, Malaysia’s veteran pair Tan Wee Kiong and Nur Mohd Azriyn Ayub sensationally knocked out world No.1 and reigning world champions Kim Won Ho and Seo Seung Jae in straight games, 21–19, 21–14, to reach the men’s doubles quarterfinals.
Tan Wee Kiong–Nur Mohd Azriyn Ayub Into Denmark Open Quarters
The unseeded Malaysian duo, ranked world No. 24, displayed tactical brilliance and composure beyond expectations to defeat the formidable Korean top seeds in just 36 minutes. This marks their first-ever victory over a world No.1 pair and stands as a landmark moment in their partnership, which only began last year.
“We just wanted to enjoy the match and give our best,” said Tan. “Our plan was simple- match their tempo, stay focused, and not overthink it.”
Their strategy paid off handsomely. Aware of the Koreans’ strength in aggressive defence, the Malaysians chose to mirror their intensity, catching Kim and Seo off-guard with unconventional play and sharp anticipation.
Even the Korean stars acknowledged the disruption.
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“They made some unexpected plays we weren’t really able to return properly,” admitted Kim.
“We weren’t able to show our strategies,” Seo added.
Malaysia’s Last Men’s Pair Standing
With top national pairs Aaron Chia/Soh Wooi Yik and Goh Sze Fei/Nur Izzuddin Rumsani already eliminated in the opening round, Tan and Azriyn are now Malaysia’s sole representatives left in the men’s doubles draw. The pair also became only the third Malaysian duo to beat Kim/Seo this year, following Chia/Soh (Singapore Open final) and Goh/Izzuddin (India Open final).
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The result is even more significant as it marks Kim/Seo’s earliest exit on the BWF World Tour since they resumed their partnership in January.
Also Read: BWF Denmark Open: The Winningest Nation And List Of Winners
Next Challenge: Defending Champions Await
Tan and Azriyn will now face a stern test in the quarterfinals against fifth seeds and defending champions Liang Wei Keng and Wang Chang of China. It will be the pair’s first-ever meeting.
Despite the challenge, Tan remains optimistic:
“Today’s win gives us the motivation to keep going. We’ll continue to fight for the country.”
