RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - The Indonesian Badminton Association (PBSI) has withdrawn two men’s doubles pairs from the Australian Open 2026 as part of a broader strategy to focus on player recovery and preparation for upcoming priority tournaments.

Men’s doubles head coach Antonius Budi Ariantho said the decision was made after discussions with the support team, resulting in the withdrawal of Fajar Alfian/Muhammad Shohibul Fikri and Raymond Indra/Joaquin from the tournament.

According to Antonius, the move follows an evaluation of the pairs’ recent performances, particularly after the Indonesia Open 2026, which he described as an important milestone for PBSI.

“After discussions with the support team, I decided to withdraw Fajar/Fikri and Raymond/Joaquin from the Australian Open 2026,” Antonius said in Sydney on Monday, June 8, 2026, as quoted on the PBSI official website.

He noted that Fajar/Fikri had not yet achieved the targets set for them at the Indonesia Open, making a comprehensive evaluation necessary as part of future improvements. He added that the Australian Open was not included in their primary tournament program during this period.

“As a result, their focus will now be directed toward more optimal preparation for upcoming priority tournaments such as the World Championships and the Asian Games,” he said.

For Raymond/Joaquin, Antonius cited concerns over recovery time following their run to the Indonesia Open final. He also pointed to Raymond’s recent return from a knee injury.

“With the short recovery period between the Indonesia Open final and the first round of the Australian Open and considering Raymond has only recently recovered from a knee injury, competing in Australia carries the risk of aggravating the injury,” he concluded. ***