Malaysia’s national men’s doubles pair Aaron Chia and Soh Wooi Yik cruised into the semifinals of the Thailand SEA Games after defeating Thailand’s Supak Jomkoh and Kittinupong Kedren 21–16, 21–16 in the quarterfinals.
However, the match didn’t end up being remembered just for the win, after an unusual umpiring decision left players and spectators scratching their heads.
The bizarre moment happened when Aaron and Wooi Yik were comfortably leading 18–11. After several attacking attempts by the Thai pair failed to score, both sides found themselves locked in a long rally, with solid defence on display from both ends of the court.
The rally reportedly went on for over 100 shots, estimated at around 121, with neither pair able to finish the point.
Just as the crowd watched on in amazement, the umpire suddenly stopped play, citing that the players were “not serious enough” in the rally.
The call immediately stunned everyone in the arena, including the players themselves.
Instead of awarding the point, the umpire ruled that the rally would not count and ordered a replay, adding to the confusion.
Long rallies are not uncommon in high-level badminton, especially in doubles matches where defensive exchanges can stretch on as players wait patiently for an opening. This made the decision even harder for fans to understand.
Despite the interruption, Aaron and Wooi Yik stayed composed and did not let the incident affect their rhythm.
The Malaysian pair went on to close the first game 21–16 before repeating the same score in the second, sealing a straight-games victory and booking their spot in the semifinals.
The incident has since sparked discussion among badminton fans online, with many questioning the umpire’s decision and calling it one of the strangest moments seen so far at the Thailand SEA Games.
Watch the video here.
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