Malaysia’s top mixed doubles pair, Tang Jie and Ee Wei, appear to be firmly back on track, both mentally and tactically, following a period of personal conflict that had threatened to derail their partnership. According to national mixed doubles coach Nova Widianto, the pair’s improved emotional control and renewed chemistry were evident during their outings at the Sudirman Cup 2025, held recently in Xiamen, China.
Ranked world No. 4, Tang Jie and Ee Wei were separated for nearly a month prior to the team championships, following what was described as a “personal fallout.” This brief split had raised concerns about the long-term stability of their partnership, particularly with key tournaments looming on the horizon. However, the duo regrouped just in time for the Sudirman Cup and showed signs of positive progress throughout the competition.
Tang Jie and Ee Wei Emotional Stability: The Missing Piece
One of the biggest challenges facing Tang Jie and Ee Wei in recent months has been their tendency to let emotional tension interfere with their game—often visible in miscommunication, body language, or frustration during high-stakes matches. Coach Nova, however, believes they’ve turned a new page.
“They’ve taken a big step forward, not just technically, but emotionally,” Nova said upon the team’s return from China. “In the past, their emotional reactions disrupted their rhythm, especially during tight games. But this time, I saw a very different approach.”
Their composure was particularly evident during Malaysia’s quarter-final clash against host nation China, where Tang Jie and Ee Wei faced off against the dominant world No. 1 pair Feng Yan Zhe and Huang Dong Ping. Although the Malaysians lost 21-17, 21-17, their fight, coordination, and controlled temperament on court were widely praised.
“They were up against one of the best pairs in the world, but they didn’t lose focus or blame each other. That level of maturity is a positive sign, especially after the turmoil they went through,” Nova added.
Notable Performances Despite Setback
While the quarter-final result was a 3-0 loss for Malaysia. Tang Jie and Ee Wei had contributed significantly during the group stages. They secured a valuable point against Japan by defeating Hiroki Midorikawa and Arisa Igarashi. And also overcame Ricky Tang and Gronya Somerville of Australia during a 4-1 win.
These victories were crucial in keeping Malaysia competitive in a tightly contested group, even though they eventually finished behind Japan.
Temporary Split for Tactical Exploration
Interestingly, despite their renewed form, the pair will temporarily go their separate ways again. But this time as part of a pre-agreed plan. Nova confirmed that Tang Jie will team up with Chan Wen Tse, and Ee Wei will partner Loo Bing Kun in the Taiwan Open this week and the upcoming Malaysia Masters (May 20-25).
“They had already agreed during their break-up period to try different partners in May,” explained Nova. “It’s a chance for both to explore different playing styles and reset mentally before the more demanding summer stretch.”
Additionally, Nova noted that both players are expected to skip the Thailand Open (May 13-18) in order to rest and recover following a demanding schedule.
Tang Jie and Ee Wei Reunion on the Horizon
Fans of the pairing can look forward to seeing Tang Jie and Ee Wei back together for two major tournaments. The Singapore Open (May 27-June 1) and the Indonesia Open (June 3-8)—both crucial events in the build-up to the Olympics.
In the meantime, their upcoming matches in Taiwan will provide valuable experience and test their adaptability with different partners. Tang Jie and Wen Tse will meet Hong Kong’s world No. 49 Lui Chun Wai-Fu Chi Yan. While Bing Kun and Ee Wei are set to challenge Indonesia’s world No. 41 pair Adnan Maulana and Indah Cahya Sari Jamil in their respective opening rounds.
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