Video: The Daddies Outro

Video: The Daddies Outro

On Thursday, January 23, 2025, Mohammad Ahsan and Hendra Setiawan fulfilled their final media obligations at DAIHATSU Indonesia Masters 2025.

It marked the end of an era, and this is how the legendary duo bade farewell to the press at the iconic Istora Senayan, a venue that had witnessed so many of their triumphs.

Three days later, the passionate Istora crowd gathered to offer the Daddies a poignant sendoff.

The badminton icons also reflected on their careers in heartfelt letters shared separately with CNN Indonesia. Below are some of the most significant excerpts from their parting words.

AHSAN

On realising the time was up

“When the Race to Paris started, we were already on the decline. One of the main reasons was our physical condition. Recovery became harder.

“Many players retire still longing to play. I didn’t want to be like that. That’s why it took me a long time to make a decision, it needed to feel right.”

On their first world title in 2013

“I always believed we could win the World Championships but never imagined it would happen so soon after we teamed up. I had an injury at the All England that kept me out for months. Then, we won the Singapore and Indonesia Opens and the World Championships. I never expected it to happen that quickly.”

On defying expectations upon reuniting

“In 2019, we won the All England, World Championships and the World Tour Finals. It felt like a miracle. I thought we were nearing the end but we rose again – not just any rise, but one that saw us win some of the most prestigious titles.”

On relationship with Coach Herry Iman Pierngadi

“I see him as my father. He was the first to take my hand and guide me at the National Centre. His advice stayed with me: ‘If you are successful, don’t change your lifestyle. Stay humble’.”

On retiring without Olympic medal

“The Tokyo 2020 Olympics were postponed, I see that as destiny. Even if it had taken place in 2020, I don’t think I would have won a medal. That’s just how I see it.

“I have no regrets. I did everything possible. If I didn’t get it, it was destiny.”

Pierngadi and Ahsan at the farewell ceremony.

SETIAWAN

On realising the time was up

“I wanted one last appearance but we didn’t qualify for the Paris Olympics. Plus, I was getting old and the 2024 results weren’t great, we only made one final in Australia.”

On his career

“Looking back, I’m incredibly satisfied with everything I’ve achieved. They are beyond my imagination. My initial dream was simply to be a champion. Once I joined the National Centre, my goal shifted to becoming an Olympic champion and I was fortunate to achieve that with (the late) Markis Kido (at Beijing 2008).”

On that Olympic gold

“The night before the final against Cai Yun/Fu Hai Feng, I couldn’t sleep, I couldn’t eat. I was restless.

“After winning, I felt relieved because it was our dream. I felt happy and proud because there weren’t many Olympic champions from Indonesia.”

On winning the Thomas Cup in 2021

“When we lost the 2016 final, it felt like it was my last Thomas Cup. I was already 32. But it turned out I was fortunate to win it later.”

On his toughest opponents

“With Kido, it was Koo Kien Keat/Tan Boon Heong. With Ahsan, Lee Yong Dae/Yoo Yeon Seong.”

Keep smiling, legend.

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