Malaysia relegated to Davis Cup Group IV after home Group III campaign

Malaysia’s hopes of promotion from the Davis Cup Asia/Oceania Group III ended in relegation. Hosting the event at the National Tennis Centre in Kuala Lumpur from 15 to 18 July, the team lost all three of its group ties and then the relegation play-off, and will compete in Group IV in 2027.

Eight nations took part in two groups of four. Malaysia were drawn in Group B with Iran, Saudi Arabia and Vietnam, and lost to all three, including a 0-3 defeat by Vietnam. Group A comprised Jordan, the Philippines, Singapore and Uzbekistan.

The relegation play-off against the Philippines went to a deciding doubles. Darrshan Suresh Kumar gave Malaysia the lead by beating Eric Jr Olivarez 7-6(5), 6-3, before Alberto Lim levelled with a 6-1, 6-1 win over Imran Daniel Hazli. In the doubles, played late at night after heavy rain, Koay Hao Sheng and Darrshan lost 2-6, 6-4, 3-6 to Francis Alcantara and Ruben Gonzales.

Iran topped Group B and beat Group A winners Jordan 2-0. According to the Asian Tennis Federation, Iran, Jordan and Saudi Arabia, who beat Singapore in a play-off, were promoted to the 2027 World Group II Play-offs. Malaysia and Uzbekistan were relegated to Group IV.

National coach Muliyadi Jamal told The Star the team had had its opportunities at home in front of strong support, and that Malaysia would have to fight its way back to Group III next year. He said the focus would now move to preparation for the 2027 SEA Games.

The result reverses Malaysia’s progress of 2025, when the team was promoted from Group IV to Group III.