Defending mixed doubles world champions Chen Tang Jie and Toh Ee Wei’s campaign at the Singapore Open came to an abrupt and heartbreaking end today after a sudden knee injury forced them to concede their quarter-final match.

The Malaysian powerhouse duo, who entered the tournament as the third seeds, were well on track to secure a spot in the semi-finals against India’s world No. 28 Dhruv Kapila and Tanisha Crasto.

Tang Jie and Ee Wei were leading 18-16 in the first game when Ee Wei—whose left knee was already heavily strapped—was forced to call it quits after just 24 minutes of play.

A Sudden Turn of Events

The injury occurred during a tense rally when the score was locked at 15-15. According to Tang Jie, Ee Wei’s left knee twisted awkwardly mid-rally. Despite her immense pain, Ee Wei tried to push through and continue playing, but the discomfort quickly became unbearable.

“She told me at 15-all that her knee twisted,” Tang Jie told the Badminton World Federation (BWF). “She still wanted to try to play, but every time her foot touched the floor, she felt pain.”

Prioritizing his partner’s long-term health over the match, Tang Jie stepped in to comfort Ee Wei and support the decision to withdraw.

“I don’t know exactly what she felt, but injury is not something any player wants. I told her that her body is the priority. Don’t think about the match results or anything else,” he added.

A Warrior’s Spirit

Tang Jie, who has faced his own battle with injuries in the past, spoke highly of Ee Wei’s legendary grit and resilience, noting that she rarely gives up unless the pain is severe.

“I’ve been injured before, so I know how it feels. Furthermore, her body hasn’t been at a perfect 100% since before, but she always fights and endures,” Tang Jie explained. “If it wasn’t for extreme pain, I believe she would definitely have kept playing. That’s how I know this injury is truly serious for her.”

This premature exit marks another challenging week for the world-class pair, who also bowed out in the quarter-finals of the Malaysia Masters last week. The priority now shifts entirely to Ee Wei’s medical assessment and recovery, with fans across Malaysia wishing the resilient shuttler a swift and complete return to the court.