Indonesia's Apriyani Rahayu Targets New Challenge at Taipei Open 2026

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Indonesia is set to strengthen its mixed doubles department by deploying Olympic champion Apriyani Rahayu in a new role at the 2026 BWF World Tour Super 300 Taipei Open, where she is expected to make her debut alongside Dejan Ferdinansyah.

The move marks a significant shift in Apriyani's career after years of competing in women's doubles and is expected to provide Indonesia with greater depth and flexibility ahead of future international tournaments.

Mixed doubles head coach Rionny Mainaky said Apriyani joined the discipline's training program earlier this week and has already begun preparations for the Taipei Open, scheduled for July 28 August 2, 2026.

“The idea initially came from Dejan, who wanted to partner Apri in mixed doubles, and Apri was willing to switch disciplines," Rionny said in a statement released by the Indonesian Badminton Association (PBSI), on Thursday, June 25, 2026, as quoted by Antara.

"After discussions with the coaching staff and performance department, the plan was approved,” he added.

Rionny welcomed Apriyani's arrival, citing her experience and strong doubles foundation as key assets that could accelerate her transition to mixed doubles.

“Since Monday, Apri has been training with us. Her motivation, enthusiasm, and focus have been very good. With adequate preparation time, I believe the adaptation process can be quick,” he said.

The coach added that Apriyani's proven work ethic and fighting spirit, demonstrated during her Olympic gold medal-winning campaign with Greysia Polii at the Tokyo 2020 Games, remain valuable qualities.

“I witnessed her determination and hard work during the Tokyo Olympics. We want to bring that same mentality into this new challenge,” he continued.

He emphasized that the Dejan-Apriyani partnership is not merely an experimental pairing, arguing that both players possess the experience and quality needed to compete at a high level. “I believe we have a real opportunity,” he added.

Rionny also expects Apriyani's presence to strengthen the mixed doubles squad while creating healthy competition and motivation among other national team pairs.

Meanwhile, Bernadine Anindya Wardana, who previously partnered Dejan, will form a new partnership with Verrell Yustin Mulia. The pair is also scheduled to make its debut at the Taipei Open 2026. ***