PETALING JAYA: What do badminton, window shopping, and wagyu beef have in common?

For national men’s doubles shuttlers Yap Roy King and Wan Arif Wan Junaidi, they’re all part of a growing bond – one that’s helping them build chemistry both on and off the court.

While their partnership is still a work in progress, one thing is clear - their friendship is the glue holding it together.

“To take our minds off badminton, we enjoy going shopping but we don’t buy anything! We just find a nice spot to chill,” said Roy King with a laugh.

That easygoing camaraderie is slowly translating into better understanding during matches, as the world No. 23 duo seek more stability and consistency on the World Tour.

So far, their highlight of the year has been a semi-final run at the Orleans Masters, but now they’re eyeing a bigger breakthrough at next week’s Japan Open in Tokyo.

Their journey, however, starts with a tricky internal clash with a first-round match against fellow Malaysians Man Wei Chong-Tee Kai Wun.

The winners will face either Thailand’s Kittinupong Kedren-Dechapol Puavaranukroh or China’s Huang Di-Liu Yang in the second round.

Despite the tough draw, Roy King is optimistic. Under the guidance of coach Herry Iman Pierngadi, he and Arif have been sharpening their game.

“Coach Herry pays a lot of attention to small details. His tactical knowledge is solid, but more importantly, he teaches us how to enjoy the game,” said Roy King.

“Both Arif and I still struggle with confidence at times, but we’re learning to communicate better. Our aim is to get some upsets against top-10 pairs and hopefully finish on the podium.”

And if they do go far in Tokyo? Roy King knows exactly how he’ll reward himself.

“Wagyu beef. That’s my favourite.”