REPUBLIKA.CO.ID, JAKARTA -- Marcus Fernaldi Gideon and Kevin Sanjaya Sukamuljo were welcomed by sports minister Imam Nahrawi upon arrival at the airport after winning an All Englan champion title in Britain on Sunday. "The victory must be taken as a momentum for the country's badminton players to make better achievements for the resurrection of Indonesia in the sport as there will be World Championship, Sudirman Cup, Southeast Asia Games and Asian Games next year," the minister said.

He said the victory showed readiness of Marcus and Kevin as the new generation who would continue the country's tradition as being syrong in the men's double event. "I who could only give encouragement would like to thank to our heroes who have given the best to meet our prayer, hope and pride," the minister said.

Marcus/Kevin on the occasion also thanked for all the prayers and welcome of the Indonesian people and pledged they would continue to fight for the glory of Indonesia. "We are glad we can become a champion to give pride to the nation. We may not be off guard and must keep fighting to make more achievements in the future," Marcus said.

"We thanked to the people of Indonesia, the government, the board of the All Indonesia Badminton Association (PBSI) for all their supports. This victory is also the victory of Indonesia," Kevin said.

Marcus/Kevin won the champion title after beating Li Junhui/Liu Yuchen from China 21-19, 31-14 in the men's double event. The champion title was the fourth secured by the two players so far after they won champion titles at India Open, Australia Open and China Open last year

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