With Marcus Ellis and Lauren Smith now retired, Gregory and Jenny Mairs have become England’s senior-most mixed pair on the international circuit.
Their latest performance – a 21-9 21-13 victory over India’s Rohan Kapoor/Gadde Ruthvika Shivani in the DAIHATSU Indonesia Masters 2025 first round – underscores the world No.42 pair’s determination to step into the leading role. The result was also crucial towards gaining points to qualify for their marquee home event, the All England in March.
“We are not producing top 10 pairs at the moment so we need to do big things in England to get back to having two or three up there,” said Gregory. “We want to inspire others but ultimately we want them to be better than us.”
The Mairs’ journey hasn’t been as straightforward as it may seem. Both have balanced part-time jobs – from pizza delivery driver to security guard – to fund their careers.
“It hasn’t been easy but we’ve learned to focus on the things we can control – preparation, mindset and enjoying the process,” reflected Gregory, a Chester native.
The Indonesia Masters is part of a demanding three-week tour across Asia, which also included the Malaysia and India Opens. These events have been essential for their growth, particularly after taking on the world No.1 and No.2 pairs.
“You either win or you learn,” Jenny explained. “Playing those top pairs pushes us to raise our game. We took the lessons, focused on them in practice and applied them in today’s match.”
Gregory added: “We went in with a plan, executed it and we won.”
The 29-year-old elaborated on one specific adjustment that has made a difference.
“One of the biggest things has been moving forward more. Against the top pairs, even when the shuttle is slightly below tape, they apply pressure and go forward so much. Today, we tried to stay high, challenge at the front and be more aggressive.”
The Mairs had additional support during their opening match; close friend Marvin Seidel stepping into the coaching chair to provide valuable input at key moments.
“Before the match, he helped us finetune our plan,” Jenny said. “At mid-game interval, he reminded us to keep moving forward and stick to the strategy. His presence gave us extra confidence.”
The duo face locals Rinov Rivaldy/Lisa Ayu Kusumawati in the next round. This will be their first encounter.
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