Mar 9 • 06:20 UTC 🇰🇷 Korea Hankyoreh (KR)

‘Golden Duo’ Seo Seung-jae and Kim Won-ho, achieve consecutive Yonex Open victories after 40 years... "I’m happy to fulfill my dream"

South Korean badminton pair Seo Seung-jae and Kim Won-ho have achieved back-to-back victories at the Yonex Open, a feat not seen in 40 years in Korean badminton.

Seo Seung-jae and Kim Won-ho, known as the 'Golden Duo' of South Korean men's doubles badminton, have made history by winning the Yonex Open in Birmingham, UK, marking their second consecutive victory in the tournament. This achievement is unprecedented in Korean badminton for the last 40 years, with the previous pair to do so being Park Joo-bong and Kim Moon-soo in the mid-1980s. The duo secured their latest title by defeating Malaysian pair Aaron Chia and Soh Wooi Yik, reinforcing their status as the world's top-ranked men's doubles team.

Following the tournament, Seo expressed his gratitude, crediting his partner for being a source of confidence and support throughout their preparation. Both players recalled their journey together, which resumed after a seven-year break to compete in major tournaments. Last year, they reclaimed their positions in the badminton world by winning multiple titles, showcasing their remarkable synergy and resilience as a team. Their success has also reignited hopes for South Korean badminton on the international stage.

The duo's victory at the Yonex Open comes amidst challenges, including Seo's recent shoulder injury that sidelined him from several competitions. Their successful return not only clinches another title but also reflects their commitment and determination as athletes. Looking ahead, both players share aspirations for further success, particularly with the Paris 2024 Olympics on the horizon, aiming to build on this momentum as they chase their dreams in the sport.

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