Indonesia’s ambitions for the upcoming Sudirman Cup have taken a significant hit, with their squad facing a string of unfortunate setbacks just days before the prestigious mixed team event kicks off. Two of the nation’s key shuttlers—Leo Rolly Carnando and Gregoria Mariska Tunjung—have been ruled out of the competition due to injury and illness, respectively, casting doubts over the team’s overall competitiveness.
Men’s Doubles Star Sidelined with Knee Injury
Leo Rolly Carnando, one half of Indonesia’s formidable men’s doubles pair alongside Bagas Maulana, suffered a serious injury during the recent Badminton Asia Championships in Ningbo, China. The 22-year-old, who recently made headlines by reaching the All England Open final, has been diagnosed with a ligament tear in his left knee, forcing him out of action for the foreseeable future. His absence will be sorely felt, especially considering the chemistry and momentum he shared with Bagas throughout recent tournaments.
Despite the blow, Indonesia will not be calling in a replacement for Leo. Instead, the team will rely on the strength and experience of their top men’s doubles pairs: world No. 5 duo Fajar Alfian and Rian Ardianto, as well as world No. 10 Shohibul Fikri and Daniel Marthin. According to Eng Hian, head of performance and development at the Indonesian Badminton Association (PBSI), the current lineup still offers enough depth to compete at a high level in the doubles discipline.
Gregoria’s Sudden Illness Shakes Women’s Singles Lineup
In another major setback, Gregoria Mariska Tunjung, Indonesia’s top women’s singles player and world No. 5. She has withdrawn from the squad after being diagnosed with vertigo. The 2024 Olympic bronze medallist, who has been in excellent form this season. Had been expected to anchor the women’s singles matches throughout the Sudirman Cup campaign. Her sudden absence leaves a significant void in the team’s strategy.
To fill in the gap, Indonesia has turned to Esther Nurumi Tri Wardoyo, currently ranked No. 34 in the world. While Esther has shown promise on the international stage, stepping in for a player of Gregoria’s caliber at such a critical juncture is no small task. Nevertheless, this could be a defining opportunity for the young shuttler to prove her mettle under pressure.
Ginting Already Out, Pressure Mounts on Remaining Players
The latest developments add to an already growing list of challenges for Team Indonesia. Earlier, Anthony Sinisuka Ginting, the Tokyo 2020 Olympic bronze medallist. He was ruled out for three months due to a persistent right shoulder injury. With three of their top talents now unavailable, the pressure has intensified on the remaining squad members.
Particularly, the spotlight now falls on Jonatan Christie. The currently ranked world No. 6, who will be leading the men’s singles charge. While Jonatan has had an inconsistent run in recent months. The team will be counting on his experience and leadership to help steer the campaign forward. He will be backed by rising stars Alwi Farhan (world No. 33) and Zaki Ubaidillah (world No. 77). Both of whom are relatively untested at this level but could spring surprises if they rise to the occasion.
A Complicated Road Ahead for Sudirman Cup
Indonesia enters the 2025 Sudirman Cup as the tournament’s second seed. That is a position that reflects their rich history and pedigree in international badminton. They famously won the inaugural edition in 1989, and last reached the final back in 2007. However, with their top players sidelined, the road to glory has become considerably steeper.
Coach and management staff are now working tirelessly to rework strategies. Manage player fitness, and prepare mentally for what will undoubtedly be a grueling test of depth and resilience. While the odds may not be in their favor, Indonesia’s proud tradition and fighting spirit could still make them a formidable presence in the competition.
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