On 6th December, Malaysia’s mixed-doubles team announced some shocking news. Not only were they bowing out from the BWF World Championships 2021, the dynamic duo were parting ways.
Goh Liu Ying (吴柳莹) and Chan Peng Soon (陈炳橓) have worked hard and come far, ever since they first teamed up to challenge tournaments. Their partnership is something many have cherished, more so the two of them. Yesterday (8th December), Goh wrote a touching letter to Chan to commemorate their teamwork and friendship.
The duo teamed up in 2008 and it has been 13 years since then. With so much to say to and about her partner, Goh wrote letters to Chan on her socials. “For almost my entire badminton career, 90% (of it) was with Peng Soon,” she said, recalling their time fondly. “After (undergoing) two operations, I was forced to rest for at least eight months. He could have left me behind, but he gave me tolerance and acceptance (instead).”
The decision to spilt up wasn’t easy for them, but Goh made it clear after careful consideration, this was the best decision. After all, it had taken a while for her and Chan to form a solid teamwork that could hold up on the court. “In the past, (we) would fight against each other,” she shared. “But even (after arguing), (we) still had to bite the bullet and return to the game (because I didn’t want to lose).” However, things have changed since then. “Now, I know how to weigh the pros and cons and put (my pride) down,” she said. “These experiences are the most precious lessons in my life.”
They’ve come a long way since they first started. The duo have faced the ups and downs of tournaments and games, with plenty of achievements under their belts. In particular, their silver during Rio 2016 Summer Olympics. “Although I am not the best badminton player, because of my best partner Peng Soon, we have achieved (much on) our mixed-doubles road,” Goh said.
Their 13 years together have passed in the blink of an eye. But, Goh has definitely cherished every moment they’ve had. “To Peng Soon, the best father, the best husband, and the best badminton partner, thank you for staying with me, through the best times and the worst,” she wrote. “I sincerely believe you can achieve more brilliant successes after this!”
As for their future, only Chan has decided what he’ll be doing next. The other half of the duo will be continuing his badminton career with Malaysia’s national badminton team. For now, he’s focused on finding a new partner for the Paris Olympics 2024. Goh herself has yet to decide what’s next for her. And that includes whether she will be hanging up the racket or not. “Give me some time and I will satisfy everyone’s curiosity,” she promised.
Chan was quick to reassure her that she was still the best partner in his life. He advised her to rest well before leaving. On the other hand, former national badminton star, Datuk Lee Chong Wei took the opportunity to advise Goh on other matter. “It’s time to marry,” he commented jokingly, to the amusement of many. Goh’s only reply to that was a contemplative “hmm” and some thinking emojis.
All good things must come to an end, no matter how much we wish otherwise. It’s only a blessing for both Goh and Chan that they were able to part ways on their own terms. Although their paths have divided, we know they will be cheering each other on in whatever they do.
We wish them all the best for the next chapter of their careers. Be it Chan gunning for Paris Olympics 2021 or Goh finding a beau to spend the rest of her life with, we hope they will always be blessed.
