Peng Soon BAM

KUALA LUMPUR: Shuttler Chan Peng Soon has rejoined the Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM) a day after he parted ways with mixed doubles partner Goh Liu Ying.

BAM president Norza Zakaria in a statement today said that after thorough deliberation, the national body reached the decision to absorb the accomplished 33-year-old to strengthen the mixed doubles department.

Norza said Peng Soon, who alongside Liu Ying left BAM in 2018, will report for duty on Jan 1.

“We are delighted to be able to add a player of his experience and credentials to our national team. In his application, he has stated his intentions to fight for Paris 2024 and expressed his determination to also serve as mentor to our young team,” said Norza.

Last night, Peng Soon in a heartfelt Instagram post, revealed the decision to end his partnership with Liu Ying.

The Penangite said he still has unfinished business in badminton, although it would be awkward not to play alongside Liu Ying after being through ups and downs together for 13 years.

“It was really sad to break up with Liu Ying and I’m still not used to the situation after spending the last 13 years playing together on court,” he said.

On his most memorable moment with Liu Ying, Peng Soon said the historical silver medal at the 2016 Rio Olympics will be forever etched in his heart. No Malaysian mixed pair had won an Olympic medal prior to that.

Peng Soon and Liu Ying also won 12 titles as well as the team gold at the 2010 Commonwealth Games in New Delhi and mixed doubles bronze at the 2018 Gold Coast Commonwealth Games.

They reached their highest world ranking of third in 2013.