Jakarta, IO – Bagas Maulana/Muhammad Shohibul Fikri’s journey in the All England 2022 badminton tournament ended up as sweet as any fairy tale. They are confirmed as Champions right at their debut, after having decisively defeated their seniors/second top doubles Mohammad Ahsan/Hendra Setiawan on Sunday, 20 March 2022. During the final match at the Utilita Arena, Birmingham, Bagas/ Fikri won a straight game, with 21-19, 21-13. It is a perfect end to their amazing journey, wherein they surprisingly took down strong opponents that included world champions Takuro Hoki/Yugo Kobayashi (Japan) and Marcus Fernaldi Gideon/Kevin Sanjaya Sukamuljo (Indonesia).
“I am still unable to speak! I am shaken, disbelieving, happy, and proud all in one,” Bagas said after the match. “I never expected to get on the top step of the podium on my debut. I don’t know what exactly did I feel anymore when we finished the match – the only thing I remember is a sense of being overjoyed.”
So many emotions ran through Bagas/Fikri as they completed their match. In fact, Fikri couldn’t stop his tears: “I was so happy that I cried… I couldn’t help it! I never thought that we might become the champions here,” he said. “We dedicate our title to Indonesia, PBSI, our coaches, our family, and other loved ones who have always supported us.”
The Bagas/Fikri game was consistent and aggressive. They remained calm and did not make many unforced errors. “Today’s match was simply amazing. We simply focused on getting one point after another, never minding whether we’re going to win or not,” Fikri said. “Even getting as far as the finals is amazing to me. I honestly wonder whether today’s victory is just a bonus and grace of God…”
