2025-10-03,KUALA LUMPUR

Shuttler Aaron Chia has brushed aside fears of burnout, insisting a packed schedule is the key to keeping him sharp on court.

Aaron, who forms the world No. 2 pairing with Soh Wooi Yik, revealed he thrives on tournament pressure, saying training alone cannot replicate the intensity of competition.

Coach Herry Iman Pierngadi had previously suggested the duo's form was dipping due to the relentless World Tour calendar.

They crashed out in the quarter-finals of the Paris World Championships and suffered a first-round exit at the Hong Kong Open, before bouncing back with a semi-final run at the China Masters.

"I like to play in tournaments. Even though I'm 28, soon 29, I feel I need to play more to keep my touch on court," said Aaron after training at Academy Badminton Malaysia on Friday.

"In training, even if you give a lot, you might only bring out half of that in a match because of nerves or the opponent's form.

"Winning or losing is secondary — the main thing is to give everything and gain experience."

Aaron stressed that he and Wooi Yik are in step with their coaches on managing the workload, adding that changes will be made as they edge closer to the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.

"This year and next, we'll play more tournaments to get points and rhythm. From 2027, we'll be more selective," he said.

While some players cut back to conserve energy, Aaron believes regular travel and competition are essential.

"Whether it's flights or trains, the fatigue is always there. But I've been doing this for years. I'm used to it," he added.

The pair's next target is the World Tour Finals in December, where they have yet to progress beyond the group stage.

"Step by step, we hope to finally break through. Winning the Finals would be a big achievement for us," he said.

Aaron-Wooi Yik are now preparing for the Arctic Open in Finland, which starts on Tuesday.