Muhammad Rian Ardianto and Rahmat Hidayat announced their partnership in spectacular fashion at VICTOR Denmark Open 2025, toppling second seeds Aaron Chia and Soh Wooi Yik 21-13 21-17 in a first round stunner.

The Indonesian duo’s victory marks a promising start to their collaboration following Ardianto’s recent partnership turbulence. After temporarily splitting with long-time partner Fajar Alfian earlier this year, Ardianto endured two first round exits alongside Yeremia Erich Yoche Yacob Rambitan at the Korea Open and China Masters last month.

Against the Malaysians, the new pairing looked anything but experimental. They capitalised on their opponents’ fatigue following last week’s Arctic Open, where the world No.2s finished runners-up, though Hidayat was diplomatic about the advantage.

“They were probably a little tired after the final last week, they weren’t in their best condition,” he noted.

About his new partner, Hidayat praised Ardianto’s rear-court prowess.

“Rian is very good there and covers the court really well,” he said.

Ardianto returned the compliment, highlighting how Hidayat’s previous partnerships with Kevin Sanjaya Sukamuljo and Pramudya Kusumawardana have shaped his game.

“Rahmat possesses good qualities from those experiences. He already has a solid foundation, which is great because it feels like we don’t have to start from scratch.”

Later in the day, Weng Hong Yang showed Loh Kean Yew the door 21-17 11-21 21-17. Surprisingly, it’s the first meeting between the two HSBC BWF World Tour regulars.

“The conditions were totally different when we tested the courts. The shuttle was so fast and I spent the first game trying to adapt,” Loh shared.

Weng said: “It came down to the long rallies. Loh is quick and likes to finish fast. I knew the closer the scores were, the longer the match would be.”

The China Masters champion is emerging as a strong contender in men’s singles for China, with two titles this season. He’s keen to establish his own identity, emphasising he won’t be measured against badminton’s elite.

“I’ve looked up to the greats of Lin Dan, Chen Long and Shi Yu Qi. I play my way, I have my own style, I’m just me. I want people to know me for being me.”

Weng will face Alex Lanier in the Round of 16.

→ Results (Day 2)

→ Order of Play (Day 3)

WHAT OTHERS SAID

“The draw looks tough. I’m hoping I can go all the way, I’m going to focus on each match at a time and hopefully I can perform, then naturally, I will go far.” – Michelle Li after beating Ratchanok Intanon for the first time in two years

“Our lives haven’t changed that much since, there hasn’t been a lot of media attention on us and we haven’t set new targets. We just want to play our best.” – A humble Chen Bo Yang on life post-World Championships silver

“In matches like this, I’m aware I can be the target. I prepare for it, that’s what I train for. My thoughts are only to constantly return the shuttle and land a convincing shot to the floor.” – Lee Jong Min adapting to partnering a world champion in Chae Yu Jung

“We are playing the Denmark and French Opens. We have good memories of the tournaments having won both. It’s great to be back together. Seeing Jia with others made me miss playing with her. Missing her means I don’t want to miss her.” – Chen Qing Chen, now back with her Olympic gold-winning partner