Korea Open 2024 FikriDaniel and LeoBagas Qualify for the Last 16

Daniel/Fikri during training at the PBSI Cipayung National Training Center (doc: PBSI)

Two Indonesian men’s doubles pairs, Muhammad Shohibul Fikri/Daniel Marthin and Leo Rolly Carnando/Bagas Maulana, advanced to the last 16 of the 2024 Korea Open. Both pairs were able to pass the first hurdle of the Super 500 tournament by defeating their respective opponents.

In the last 32 match played at the Mokpo Indoor Stadium, Tuesday (27/8), Fikri/Daniel beat the Taiwanese pair Chen Cheng Kuan/Chen Sheng Fa in two straight games 21-11, 21-16.

“Alhamdulillah we were given the win. Even so, there is still a lot to be fixed. The opponent also played quite well, especially in the second game by giving a tighter resistance by changing the game pattern. But we are more prepared,” said Fikri after the match, as reported by the official PBSI website, Tuesday (27/8).

Also read: Fikri/Daniel Defeated by Kang Min Hyuk/Seo Seung Jae

Compared to last week at the Japan Open, Fikri/Daniel’s performance at the Korea Open was better. According to Daniel, the rotation and cooperation with Fikri were more solid.

“But there are still things that need to be fixed and improved. In addition, the adaptation must be faster. From the game side, we also need to be more in,” said Daniel.

Meanwhile, Leo Rolly Carnando/Bagas Maulana qualified after defeating the Taiwanese pair, Ming Che Lu/Kai Wei Tang, also in two games 21-13, 21-16.

The match was passed by Leo/Bagas easily, especially in the first game. Like Fikri/Daniel, the Korea Open event was also a means of warming up for Leo/Bagas as a new pair.

“For evaluation material as a new pair, what needs to be added is the communication aspect. As new partners, we do have to communicate often. This is so that our game will get better,” said Bagas. (M-3)