Tang Jie-Ee Wei find purpose after split as they eye first Super 1000 final
KUALA LUMPUR: From a split just three months ago to a Super 1000 semi-final — Chen Tang Jie-Toh Ee Wei's mixed doubles partnership is enjoying a well-timed resurgence.
The world No. 4, who reunited only last week after a brief separation, are now riding a wave of form at the Indonesia Open, where they are just two wins away from the biggest title of their career.
Their reunion, following a short stint with other partners, seems to have reignited a deeper sense of purpose and maturity in their combination.
"During the time we were apart, both of us partnered younger players who had the ability, but didn't always get the chance to play in high-level tournaments," said Tang Jie.
"That experience made us realise how important it is to be patient and take more responsibility."
Their brief pairings — Tang Jie with Chan Wen Tse and Ee Wei with Loo Bing Kun — gave them a fresh perspective on leadership and accountability, ultimately strengthening their commitment to the original partnership.
The results speak for themselves.
On Friday, Tang Jie-Ee Wei booked their spot in the Indonesia Open semi-finals with a hard-fought 17-21, 21-16, 21-14 victory over Denmark's Jesper Toft-Amalie Magelund — the reigning European champions — in their first-ever meeting.
"It wasn't easy because they're top players too," said Ee Wei.
"Our coach kept motivating us and told us to stay confident. We also trusted each other on court."
Tang Jie added: "Before the match, we talked about increasing our pace because Toft is a very skilful and tall player. We wanted to play faster to find attacking chances."
"In the end, I think my partner led me really well today, and that helped us win."
Their momentum in Jakarta marks a clear contrast to their recent struggles.
After a disappointing All England campaign in March led to their split, both players went on separate paths.
Although they featured together at the Sudirman Cup in May, the reunion was not yet official.
That only came at the Singapore Open last week — where they bowed out in the last 16.
Now, with confidence restored and chemistry renewed, they are peaking at the right time.
Next, they face in-form Thais Dechapol Puavaranukroh-Supissara Paewsampran, who prevented an all-Malaysian semi-final by ousting Goh Soon Huat-Shevon Lai 21-16, 21-16 in the quarters.
The Thai pair lead the head-to-head 2-1, including their most recent win at the Indonesia Masters.
But with a place in their maiden Super 1000 final on the line, Tang Jie-Ee Wei will be eager to flip the script and complete their remarkable turnaround.
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