Report by: 蔡厚瑄

At the 2025 World Senior Games badminton competition, a stunning upset occurred on the 22nd in the men's 50-and-over doubles category. The Indonesian "World Champion Duo" of Hariyanto Arbi and Tri Kusharjanto made their debut but unexpectedly lost to the Taichung pair of Yang Zhi-Yu and Liu Ying-Hero. After the match, Yang and Liu expressed their surprise, saying, "We never thought we could beat such top players!" Despite the unexpected defeat, both teams advanced to the men's 50+ semifinals, set to compete again on the 23rd.

The Indonesian duo has a rich history in badminton, with 53-year-old Hariyanto Arbi being recognized as one of the top players of the 1990s, having won numerous titles including the gold medal at the 1995 Lausanne World Championships. He was also crowned the world's top men's singles player in 1995. Meanwhile, 51-year-old Tri Kusharjanto achieved a silver medal in mixed doubles at the 2000 Sydney Olympics and was ranked first in mixed doubles in 1996. After retiring, they have continued to compete together, securing titles in the 2013, 2015, and 2023 World Senior Badminton Championships.

In the match, the Indonesian duo lost the first set 18-21, but bounced back to take the second set 21-19. However, in the third set, Yang Zhi-Yu's powerful attacks put the Indonesian champions on the defensive, ultimately leading to their unexpected loss at 15-21.

Despite experiencing an old injury, Arbi remarked after the match that it did not affect his performance. He praised his opponents, stating, "They played exceptionally well, and I congratulate them on their victory." He also commended the organization of the World Senior Games, saying the atmosphere was fantastic, and the planning was well done, ensuring players could compete comfortably.

The duo of Yang and Liu, both former top-tier players, have stepped away from the sport since college and currently work as teachers. They began training three times a week last year in preparation for this event.
"We never expected to win!" Yang expressed after their victory, reflecting on the gravity of facing such legends in the tournament. "Knowing we were up against the World Champion Duo, we kept a calm mindset and targeted their weaker areas. Winning this match feels amazing!"