Malaysia’s top women’s double pair, Pearly Tan and M.Thinaah, saw their hopes of a long awaited home title dashed after falling to China’s Jia Yi Fan and Zhang Shu Xian in the semi-finals of the Malaysia Masters 2025.
Backed by a huge spirited home crowd at the Axiata Arena Bukit Jalil, the fourth ranked Malaysian duo gave a powerful performance but ultimately give in a 16-21, 21-15, 14021 in a 74 minute showdown against the world No.16 Chinese pair.
The loss marks the second defeat for Pearly-Thinaah to Jia-Zhang, following their earlier encounter at the Orleans Masters in March this year. Despite entering the match with high hopes, especially after winning the title at the Thailand Open few days ago, the Malaysians struggled with consistency across the three games.
“For today’s match, we feel disappointed but we wont dwell on it for long. We really gave our best and we did it quite well”, Pearly shared with reporters after the match.
She praised the Chinese pair’s synergy, noting Jia’s control from the backcourt and Zhang’s aggression at the net as key elements of their dominance.
This semi final exit prolongs Pearly and Thinaah’s quest for a first title on home soil, a feat last achieved in this category by Chin Eei Hui and Wong Pei Tty in 2012. Their last appearance in a Malaysia Masters final dates back to 2023, where they narrowly lost to South Korea’s Baek Ha Na-Lee So Hee in a memorable 101 minute battle.
As semi finalist, Pearly and Thinaah will take home USD 6650 (approximately RM28,000) while the champions of this Super 500 World Tour event are set to earn USD 37,525 (RM 159,000).
Adding to the intrigue surrounding the pair’s future question about their contract status with Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM) remain unanswered.
“No comment. We’ve got a tournament coming up. We don’t really have time, so no comment on this”, said Pearly.
While the wait for a home title continues, Pearly and Thinaah’s determination and rising global reputation suggest their journey is far from over.
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