KUALA LUMPUR: Mixed pair Chen Tang Jie-Toh Ee Wei are looking to continue building steam in Europe as they marched into the second round of the French Open.
On Wednesday, Tang Jie-Ee Wei defeated compatriots Tan Kian Meng-Lai Pei Jing 21-15, 21-18 in the first round at the Arena Porte de la Chapelle.
Tang Jie-Ee Wei will face China's fourth seed Feng Yan Zhe-Huang Dong Ping on Thursday for a spot in the quarter-finals.
The China pair swept aside Vinson Chiu-Jennie Gai of the United States 21-13, 21-9 to advance to the second round.
Based on form, the Malaysians will face a tough time against Yan Zhe-Dong Ping, whom they lost to in the World Tour Finals in December.
Currently ranked No. 9 in the Race to Paris rankings, Tang Jie-Ee Wei are well-positioned to qualify for the Paris Olympics.
Tang Jie-Ee Wei must maintain a top-13 ranking to secure a spot among 16 pairs, with the remaining three slots reserved for Oceania, Pan America, and Africa.
After the French Open, Tang Jie-Ee Wei will play in the All England (March 12-17) and Swiss Open (March 19-24).
"We really need to focus and give our best in all tournaments. This win is just a start for us. We will play the China pair next. We want to beat them," said Ee Wei.
Meanwhile, Tang Jie admitted that the match against Kian Meng-Pei Jing was challenging, but they remained focused on securing a victory on Wednesday.
"It is always challenging to take on compatriots. However, we just focused on our game. It is a good win and a good start for us here," said Tang Jie.
