Singapore’s top shuttler seeks redemption against teenage sensation at Istora Senayan
A familiar rivalry returns to center court in Jakarta as Singapore’s badminton ace looks to overturn a painful memory against one of Indonesia’s brightest young talents.
High-Stakes Rematch at Istora Senayan
Singapore’s top men’s singles player Loh Kean Yew faces Indonesian teenager Moh. Zaki Ubaidillah on Thursday, January 22, in the round of 16 at the Daihatsu Indonesia Masters 2026. The match marks a rematch of their only previous encounter, where Loh suffered a surprise defeat at the 2025 SEA Games semi-finals. Ranked world No. 10, the 28-year-old enters the contest seeking redemption at the iconic Istora Senayan.
Indonesian Teenager Carries Momentum
Zaki Ubaidillah, better known as Ubed, arrives in confident form after a composed opening-round victory over India’s Kiran George. The 18-year-old Asian Junior champion won 21-17, 21-14 on Wednesday, showing calm under pressure despite trailing early in the first game. Currently ranked world No. 46, Ubed has been one of Indonesia’s most promising young prospects under the PB Djarum training system.
Psychological Edge Despite Ranking Gap
Although ranked lower, Ubed holds a psychological advantage after defeating Loh 21-19, 21-10 at the SEA Games in 2025. That result remains a rare setback for the former world champion and adds intrigue to the rematch. Ubed acknowledged the pressure of expectations but credited his ability to stay composed and focused during tight moments.
Loh’s Experience and Resurgence
Loh Kean Yew advanced smoothly into the second round with a dominant 21-13, 21-12 win over Denmark’s Magnus Johannesen. The 2021 world champion has shown signs of regaining form and consistency, crucial as he aims to re-establish himself among the world’s top five. His experience on the BWF World Tour remains a key advantage against younger opponents.
Mutual Respect Ahead of Clash
Despite his earlier victory, Ubed has played down any sense of confidence going into the match. He emphasized the importance of recovery and preparation, noting Loh’s pedigree and ability to raise his level in major tournaments. The encounter is expected to test both physical endurance and mental resilience.
Home Crowd and Tournament Stakes
A quarter-final spot awaits the winner at this BWF World Tour Super 500 event. Indonesian fans will also be backing home favorites Anthony Sinisuka Ginting, Alwi Farhan, and Muhamad Yusuf, all competing on the same day. Matches begin at 8 am local time, or 9 am Singapore time, with Istora Senayan once again providing a charged atmosphere.
The Loh-Ubed showdown highlights the shifting dynamics of Southeast Asian badminton, where experience meets fearless youth. For Indonesians, it underscores the depth of emerging talent, while Singapore fans will watch closely as Loh Kean Yew fights to reaffirm his place among the world’s elite on one of badminton’s most demanding stages.
Sources: Straits Times (2026) , Times (2026)
Keywords: Loh Kean Yew, Moh Zaki Ubaidillah, Indonesia Masters 2026, BWF World Tour
