Justin Hoh left fans at the Taipei Arena stunned with a clinical performance that ended Lin Chun-Yi’s reign as the men’s singles champion at YONEX Taipei Open 2025.

Ranked 28 spots below his world No.17 opponent, the unheralded Malaysian capitalised on a nervy display from the local favourite to seal a straight games win, 21-17 21-18, in 46 minutes. Despite a late surge in which Lin saved three match points, the fourth seed couldn’t recover in time.

Hoh remained grounded after his surprise victory in a first meeting with Lin.

“I didn’t expect to win, I’m just looking forward to the next match now,” said the 21-year-old. “Difficult opponent and I played as an underdog. But my overall performance was good, so I’m pleased to win. My patience proved crucial and my attacking shots were on point.”

Hoh credited his recent experience with the Malaysian squad at TotalEnergies BWF Sudirman Cup Finals 2025 in Xiamen for helping him grow.

“Even though I only played one match, I learned so much from my senior teammates,” he said. “Just watching how they prepared and conducted themselves was invaluable.”

Malaysia’s day was made better later in the evening when Karupathevan Letshanaa upset women’s singles fifth seed Chiu Pin Chian in a gruelling 71-minute tussle. Karupathevan battled to a 21-19 17-21 26-24 victory to reach her first HSBC BWF World Tour quarterfinal.

“I hope this is the turning point in my career,” said the world No.50. “It was challenging staying focused toward the end, but getting through that match has strengthened my belief I’m closing the gap on the higher-ranked players and that I’m on the right track.”

→ Results (Day 3)

→ Order of play (Quarterfinals)