Kuala Lumpur: The badminton community was deeply saddened by the sudden passing of former men’s doubles World No. 12 Gan Teik Chai, who tragically suffered a heart attack in Surabaya, Indonesia on Saturday. In this time of grief, Koo Kien Keat, Gan Teik Chai’s former partner, flew to Indonesia to assist in handling the arrangements and has now returned safely to Malaysia.
Koo Kien Keat posted on his IG stories, stating, “Safely arrive” expressing his relief while still grappling with the loss of his dear friend and partner.
The funeral arrangements for Gan Teik Chai were shared by Koo Kien Keat, revealing that the condolence period will be observed for three days, from August 6th to 8th, and the cremation will take place on August 9th.
On Saturday night, the news of Gan Teik Chai’s sudden demise shook the badminton world, with Malaysian badminton legend Lee Chong Wei, who was a close friend of Gan Teik Chai, being the first to announce the heartbreaking news on social media. Messages of condolences from players and fans alike poured in, with the badminton community mourning the loss of a talented and cherished athlete.
The Malaysian Badminton Association also expressed their condolences, stating, “REST IN PEACE, TEIK CHAI” The association fondly remembered Gan Teik Chai’s achievements, which included winning the men’s doubles events at French International (with Koo Kien Keat) in 2004 and the Australian Open in 2009 (with Tan Bin Shen).
Tan Bin Shen also shared his heartfelt condolence messages to express his sympathy and support to Gan and his family during this difficult time.
Gan Teik Chai, born on February 5, 1983, was a beloved figure in the badminton world. Throughout his career, he partnered with several talented players in men’s doubles and mixed doubles, achieving remarkable success and leaving behind a legacy that will be cherished forever.
This marks the third time in six years that the badminton world has mourned the sudden death of a renowned player. Former World No. 1 Jung Jae-sung from South Korea passed away from a heart attack on March 9, 2018 at the age of 35, and Indonesia’s 2008 men’s doubles Olympic gold medalist died of a heart attack on June 14, 2021 at the age of 36. The losses of these talented athletes have left a void in the sport that will never be filled.
