The Taipei Open 2025 has reached its electrifying semifinal stage, showcasing gripping performances from both seasoned champions and rising stars. Taiwan’s home favourite, Chou Tien Chen, has fought his way into the men’s singles semifinals, while Malaysia’s newly-formed mixed doubles pair, Chen Tang Jie and Chan Wen Tse, have emerged as the nation’s flag bearers by advancing to the last four in their debut tournament together.
Chou Tien Chen’s Gritty Path to the Semifinals
Chou Tien Chen, ranked world No. 7 and a four-time Taipei Open champion (2016, 2017, 2019, 2022), has once again demonstrated his resilience and skill on home soil. In a thrilling quarterfinal clash, he staged a dramatic comeback to overcome Malaysia’s Aidil Sholeh with a score of 19-21, 21-11, 21-17.
This hard-fought victory underscores Chou’s ability to thrive under pressure, adding another chapter to his storied history at this Super 300 event. His experience at the Taipei Arena, combined with his tactical prowess, has solidified his status as a dominant force in the tournament, where he now aims for a record fifth title.
Looking ahead, Chou faces a formidable challenge in the semifinals against Indonesia’s 17-year-old sensation, Moh. Zaki Ubaidillah. The young Indonesian has been turning heads with his fearless play, setting the stage for a captivating battle between Chou’s veteran expertise and Ubaidillah’s youthful aggression. Chou’s ability to dictate the tempo and adapt mid-match will be key to securing his place in yet another Taipei Open final.
Chen Tang Jie and Chan Wen Tse: Malaysia’s Rising Stars
In the mixed doubles draw, Malaysia’s Chen Tang Jie and Chan Wen Tse have captured attention as the tournament’s surprise standout pair. Formed just a month ago as an experimental combination by the Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM), this scratch duo has defied expectations with their seamless teamwork and determination.
Their journey to the semifinals featured a commanding quarterfinal win over Indonesia’s Bobby Setiabudi and Melati Daeva Oktavianti, triumphing 22-20, 21-10 in under 30 minutes. This victory highlights their quick adaptation and potential as a dynamic partnership.
As Malaysia’s last remaining contenders in the Taipei Open, Chen and Chan now face a daunting semifinal matchup against Indonesia’s fourth-seeded pair, Jafar Hidayatullah and Felisha Alberta Nathaniel Pasaribu. Ranked world No. 22 and fresh off a bronze medal at the Asian Championships, the Indonesians present a significant hurdle.
However, Chen and Chan have already proven their mettle, displaying sharp tactical play and the ability to exploit opponents’ weaknesses. Their success in Taipei not only marks a promising start to their partnership but also positions them as a potential future powerhouse in mixed doubles for Malaysia.
A Semifinal Showdown to Watch
With the Taipei Open 2025 nearing its climax, Chou Tien Chen’s pursuit of a fifth title and Chen Tang Jie-Chan Wen Tse’s unexpected rise have set the stage for a thrilling semifinal day. Chou’s battle against a rising star and the Malaysian duo’s test against seasoned seeds promise high-stakes drama at the Taipei Arena.
For Chou, it’s a chance to cement his legacy; for Chen and Chan, it’s an opportunity to announce their arrival on the global stage. Badminton fans are in for a treat as these compelling narratives unfold.
Photo Credit: Badminton Planet
