2025-07-05,KUALA LUMPUR

Men's doubles Arif Junaidi-Yap Roy King are starting to adapt to coach Herry IP's intricate playing philosophy, says national doubles coaching director Rexy Mainaky.

Rexy admitted the transition has been far from smooth for the world No. 24 since the Indonesian coach, fondly known as the Fire Dragon joined the national set-up in February.

"Arif-Roy King were struggling to grasp Herry's detailed tactical style at first. It felt forced at times, especially for Arif, who seemed to lose his identity on court," said Rexy.

"He didn't quite understand what kind of game he should be playing, which led to mistakes and a lack of direction."

Despite early exits in four of the seven tournaments they've played under Herry, the pair showed glimpses of progress by reaching two quarter-finals and one semi-final.

Rexy pointed to their second-round loss at last month's Indonesia Open, where they pushed world No. 7 Man Wei Chong-Tee Kai Wun to three games as a turning point.

"They looked more composed and are slowly regaining confidence," he said.

Meanwhile, another national pair, Haikal Nazri-Choong Hon Jian, are still searching for consistency following injury layoffs.

Rexy said the world No. 47 returned to action too soon at high-level tournaments, which made it difficult to regain form.

"They came back from injury - first Hon Jian, then Haikal - and immediately played in Super 500, 750 and 1000 tournaments. It was extremely tough," he said.

"We considered pulling them out of events after the Indonesia Open to focus on training, but they've already missed several tournaments. Sitting out again could slow their progress even more."

Rexy believes Haikal, in particular, has lost his usual aggressive spark, a key element of his playing style.

"He's not like Arif, who is calm and steady. Haikal needs to play with aggression, that's what gives him confidence," said Rexy.

"I reminded him not to lose that edge. It's part of his identity. After being out for almost six months, it's natural to struggle."

Rexy cited former world No. 1 Datuk Lee Chong Wei as an example of even the best needing time to rediscover form after a long layoff.

"Even Chong Wei needed time after six months away. Haikal-Hon Jian were climbing, then dropped. Now it's about giving them space to rebuild slowly," he added.

Both pairs are currently preparing for the Super 750 Japan Open (July 15-20) and the Super 1000 China Open (July 22-27).