SEAToday.com, Mokpo - Indonesian duo Leo Rolly Carnando/Bagas Maulana won the Korea Open 2024 after defeating top-seeded South Koreans Kang Min Hyuk/Seo Seung Jae. The final match took place at Mokpo Indoor Stadium, Mokpo, South Korea, on Sunday (9/1)

Leo/Bagas secured their first BWF Super 500 title with a 18-21, 21-9, 21-8 victory. The pair, who made their debut at the Japan Open 2024 last week, reached the semifinals in their previous tournament.

“Thank God, we were able to play well as we had planned and won for the first time as a new pair. Last week at the Japan Open, we stopped at the semifinals, but here at the Korea Open, we won,” said Leo, as quoted from a PBSI statement.

After this, Leo and Bagas will focus on their next matches in Hong Kong and China.

"Understandably, after stepping off the podium, we can’t expect to win all the time," Leo said.

The 23-year-old continued, “I’m dedicating this victory to my family, coaches, and all of Indonesia. Hopefully, this will inspire even more success for Indonesian badminton. We’ll keep pushing ourselves.”

Bagas couldn't contain his excitement. “Thank God, I’m over the moon to win the Korea Open. After so long being called the ‘silver medalist,’ it feels amazing to finally be gold. I’m so grateful for this opportunity,” he exclaimed.

He praised Leo’s performance at the net, saying, “His serves were incredible. He really set me up for success. I was able to play with confidence from the backcourt. Our strong frontcourt play gave us the momentum to dominate the second and third games.”

“I want to dedicate this championship to my family, coaches, Indonesian badminton, and to myself,” Bagas concluded.