Malaysia Open: Record-Breakers Lay Markers Early
The year had barely begun, yet An Se Young, Kim Won Ho and Seo Seung Jae had already sent an ominous message to their rivals.
· PREM KUMAR
Just weeks after closing a record-breaking 2025, the Korean trio laid down another marker at the very first event of the new season, sweeping the women’s singles and men’s doubles titles at PETRONAS Malaysia Open 2026.
Facing China’s Wang Zhi Yi, An looked in control after taking the first game 21-15 before finding herself in trouble in the second, trailing 17-9. What followed was a display of calm, belief and stamina. Point by point, she reeled Wang back in, trusting herself even as the pressure mounted and eventually sealed the match 24-22 – securing her third consecutive Malaysia Open title.
“I tried to relax and calm myself down,” An said about her approach when eight points down. “Without realising it, I was suddenly ahead. From there, I kept pushing forward with more confidence. It’s a good start to my year. I’m so happy.”