June 1, 2020 — Malaysian badminton star Daren Liew has officially announced a partnership with professional badminton brand Kumpoo. The deal, finalized through remote negotiations during the COVID-19 pandemic, will see Kumpoo provide both equipment and financial support, enabling the then 32-year-old Liew to continue his career as an independent player.

Honors and Achievements

Highest World Ranking: No. 10

Men’s Singles Semifinalist, 2022 Thailand Open

Men’s Singles Semifinalist, 2020 Spain Masters

Men’s Singles Semifinalist, 2019 Malaysia Masters

Men’s Singles Bronze Medalist, 2018 BWF World Championships

Men’s Singles Runner-up, 2016 Korea Grand Prix Gold

Men’s Singles Champion, 2015 Polish Open

Mixed Team Gold Medal, 2014 Commonwealth Games

Men’s Team Silver Medalist, 2014 Thomas Cup

Men’s Singles Champion, 2012 French Open

Rekindled Motivation, Targeting World Top 20

Liew admitted that the uncertainty caused by the pandemic had led him to consider retirement, but Kumpoo’s two-year contract “revived hopes” for his career. He stated clearly:

“As long as I stay healthy, my goal is to break back into the world’s top 20 and win another title.”

He expressed his gratitude to Kumpoo for their trust, highlighting that his semifinal finish at the 2020 Spain Masters proved he still possesses top-level competitiveness.

Mutual Empowerment to Grow the Badminton Market

The partnership gives Liew the stability of consistent equipment and financial backing, easing the competitive pressures faced by independent players and providing a solid foundation for pursuing his late-career goals.

Kumpoo, in turn, leverages Liew’s international influence to strengthen its professional image. Following the signing, Kumpoo designed custom shoes and rackets for him, using his feedback to further refine product development. The collaboration underscores the brand’s ongoing recognition of veteran athletes’ value, while promoting the sporting spirit of “Take the Challenge.”