Leong Jun Hao’s standout performance not enough as Malaysia lose to Indonesia

At the Aichi-Nagoya 2026 Asian Games, Malaysia's men's team badminton event faced a setback as they were defeated by Indonesia in the quarterfinals, resulting in a missed opportunity to end their long wait for a men's team medal. The match took place at the Ichinomiya City Municipal Gymnasium. Malaysian shuttler Leong Jun Hao put up a strong fight against world number one Jonatan Christie, defeating him 20-22, 21-12, 21-17.

However, Indonesia bounced back with a strong performance from Goh Sze Fei-Nur Izzuddin Mohd Rumsani, who beat Goh Sze Fei-Nur Izzuddin Mohd Rumsani 15-21, 21-19, 10-21. The outcome was further cemented when Alwi Farhan defeated Justin Hoh 21-19, 21-19. Despite putting up a valiant effort, Malaysian shuttlers Aaron Chia-Tee Kai Wun and Eogene Ewe were unable to secure the necessary victories, ultimately leading to Indonesia's 3-2 triumph.

Leong Jun Hao acknowledged the challenging start to the match and attributed his improved performance in the second set to overcoming the pressure. With this loss, Malaysia remains without a men's team medal since their bronze win at the Incheon 2014 Asian Games, and has yet to secure a gold medal in the event at the Asian Games, with their best achievement being two silver medals at the Bangkok 1966 and Beijing 1990 editions.