Malaysia’s top women’s double duo, Pearly Tan and M.Thinaah, carved their names into the history of books on Sunday’s match as they became the first Malaysian women’s pair to win the Thailand Open title since the tournament’s inception 41 years ago.
The world No.4 shuttlers delivered a composed and commanding performance in the final, defeating South Korea’s Jeong Na Eun and Lee Yeon Woo 21-16, 21-17, in a 57 minute battle in Bangkok. The win not only sealed their first title of the 2025 season but also marked a significant milestone in Malaysian badminton history.
Facing a resilient Korean pair, who were competing in only their second tournament together this year, Pearly and Thinaah showed maturity, grit, and determination. Both sides exchanged long, tactical skills but the Malaysian held their nerve in the most challenging moments to maintain control throughout the match. The victory is their second consecutive win over Jeong and Lee, having previously defeated them at the French Orleans Masters in March.
This latest triumph brings Pearly and Thinaah’s career title count to four with this being their second at the World Tour Super 500 level. Their previous title include the Swiss Open in 2021, French Open in 2022, and Hong Kong Open in 2024.
Guided by their coach Rosman Razak, the duo took US37,525 (approximately RM 161,130) prize money home, while the Korean runners-up brough US18,050 (RM 77,500).
The Thailand Open title comes at the most pivotal moment for Pearly and Thinaah, who are currently weighing their future, whether to continue under the Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM) or transition into independent professionals. With this momentum and a growing international presence, the decision ahead holds a significant implication for their career trajectory.
Having already appeared in one final this year, finishing runners up at the Indonesia Masters, this win serves as a major confidence booster, especially with the Malaysian Master just around the corner in Bukit Jalil.
Pearly and Thinaah’s historic victory not only ends a decade long wait for Malaysia at the Thailand Open but also underscores the rising strength and promise of the nations women’s double on the international stage.
