KUCHING: Chen Tang Jie and Toh Ee Wei’s reign as BWF World Championships mixed doubles champions will end without a title defence after the Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM) confirmed the pair’s withdrawal from this year’s tournament.
The defending champions have been forced to pull out after Ee Wei was ruled out as she continues her rehabilitation following knee surgery, ending their bid to retain the title they won in 2025.
In a statement today (July 29) BAM said the decision was made based on medical advice, with Ee Wei’s long-term recovery remaining the priority.
“The Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM) confirms that Chen Tang Jie–Toh Ee Wei have withdrawn from the 2026 BWF World Championships as Toh Ee Wei continues her rehabilitation following recent knee surgery.
“The decision was made based on medical advice, with Ee Wei’s long-term recovery remaining the priority.
“BAM has also submitted an application to the Badminton World Federation (BWF) to protect Ee Wei’s world ranking while she undergoes rehabilitation.
“BAM wishes Ee Wei a smooth recovery and looks forward to welcoming the pair back to competition when she is fully fit,” the statement read.
Ee Wei has been sidelined since rupturing the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in her left knee during the Singapore Open in May. She subsequently underwent successful reconstructive surgery in Melbourne, Australia, and has since begun her rehabilitation programme.
Their withdrawal guarantees a new mixed doubles world champion this year, with the reigning titleholders unable to defend the crown they captured last year.
While Ee Wei continues her rehabilitation, Tang Jie is expected to continue his BWF World Tour campaign with scratch partner Clarissa San until his regular partner is fit to return or BAM opts to reshuffle its mixed doubles combinations.
BAM has also submitted an application to the Badminton World Federation (BWF) to protect Ee Wei’s world ranking during her recovery, allowing the reigning world champions to resume their campaign from a stronger position once she is medically cleared to compete again.
