All England: Slippery Day for Seeds
The last of the defending champions fell in an absorbing second round match on a day when a dizzying number of seeds crashed at the YONEX All England 2025.
· DEV SUKUMAR
Fajar Alfian and Muhammad Rian Ardianto saved seven match points against new combination Kang Min Hyuk/Ki Dong Ju, but in keeping with the theme of the day’s proceedings, ultimately fell after 80 minutes in a cracker of a match, 21-18 25-27 23-21.
Among the casualties were defending champions Jonatan Christie and Baek Ha Na/Lee So Hee, besides top contenders Anders Antonsen, Kunlavut Vitidsarn, Satwiksairaj Rankireddy/Chirag Shetty and women's doubles No.8 seeds Kim Hye Jeong/Kong Hee Yong.
Kim and Kong have enjoyed a fabulous run since they got together late last year, and arrived at the All England with two titles from three back-to-back finals. Their run however ended against a pair who have a special relationship with the All England.