It was sweet revenge for the national duo – having lost to the world No 2 pair in the Tokyo 2020 group stage – as they went toe-to-toe with their more experienced opponents before eventually prevailing over three games.
The Malaysians deserve credit for a memorable outing in Japan and the way they came back in this match, with their infectious never-say-die attitude also seeing them notch their second win over the Indonesian pair.
They also defeated another Indonesian pair – world No 1 Kevin Sanjaya Sukamuljo-Marcus Fernaldi Gideon – in the quarterfinals before going down to China’s Liu Yu Chen-Li Jun Hui in the last four yesterday.
The success fulfils the Badminton Association of Malaysia’s target of one medal for this year’s Olympic Games.
In winning, Aaron-Wooi Yik match the achievement of their coach Flandy Limpele, who won bronze for Indonesia at Athens 2004 with Eng Hian.
“Unbelievable, we won a bronze medal. Really happy and satisfied with our performance,” Aaron told the Badminton World Federation.
“I want to thank all Malaysians, all the supporters for cheering for us – our association, coaches, family and parents.
“Without them, we wouldn’t be coming to this stage.”
Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin congratulated Aaron and Wooi Yik for delivering Malaysia’s first bronze medal at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. He also expressed confidence that the pair’s achievement would be a shot in the arm for other national athletes at the games.
“Congratulations Malaysia! Congratulations, Aaron Chia-Soh Wooi Yik! This victory and medal contribution has been the hope of and awaited by all sports fans in the country.
“For our young pair, keep up the effort and fight for the country. You have proven that the country can place their hopes on you. Congratulations, you are the pride of Malaysia!” he said in a Facebook post.
Youth and sports minister Reezal Merican Naina Merican said that although the pair could not defend the silver medal placing of Goh V Shem-Tan Wee Kiong at the 2016 Rio Olympics, the determination and fighting spirit of Aaron-Wooi Yik throughout their campaign in Tokyo was inspiring.
“I know it is not easy taking on opponents who are more experienced, more so since this is our pair’s first Olympic outing. Surely all Malaysians rejoice in and are proud of their achievement,” he said. “Make this success as fuel to create more glorious #DemiMalaysia moments.”
Reezal also thanked their coach, Flandy Limpele, for his hard work in training the pair.