PEARLY Tan and M. Thinaah etched their names in the history books by becoming the first Malaysian women’s doubles team to capture the Thailand Open crown since the tournament began 41 years ago.
Currently ranked world No. 4, the pair clinched the title after a straight-sets victory over South Korea’s Jeong Na Eun and Lee Yeon Woo, winning 21-16, 21-17 in a 57-minute battle.
This marked their second consecutive win over the Korean duo, who recently reunited and were playing in just their second event of the season.
The final saw intense rallies and a tight contest, with the South Koreans pushing hard before Pearly and Thinaah sealed the win.
With the Malaysia Masters around the corner in Bukit Jalil, the victory serves as a timely morale boost for the national duo.
Their success also comes amid contract uncertainties involving the Badminton Association of Malaysia, as they weigh the option of turning professional.
Pearly-Thinaah earned US$37,525 (RM161,130) while Jeong and Lee took home US$18,050 (RM77,500).
This is the pair’s fourth title together, and their second at the World Tour Super 500 level. Their previous wins include the Swiss Open in 2021, the French Open in 2022, and the Hong Kong Open in 2024. —May 18, 2025
Main image: Bernama
