TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Indonesia has lost one of its icons of badminton. On Monday, June 2, 2025, Tan Joe Hok, a badminton legend who paved the way for Indonesia's glory on the global stage, passed away at the age of 87 at Medistra Hospital, Jakarta.
"Indonesia has just lost the badminton legend Tan Joe Hok. Tan Joe Hok passed away on Monday, June 2, 2025, at 10:52 a.m. local time at Medistra Hospital," said the official statement from PBSI.
"The Indonesian Badminton Association (PBSI) extends deep condolences and best wishes to the late Tan Joe Hok and his family. Rest in peace, Tan Joe Hok. Your legacy for badminton is eternal."
Born in Bandung on August 11, 1937, under the name of Hendra Kartanegara, Tan Joe Hok was not only a champion on the court, but also a symbol of perseverance, integrity, and tireless dedication to this nation.
He was widely known as the first Indonesian to win the All England, by defeating his compatriot Ferry Sonneville in 1959.
It was an extraordinary achievement at a time when the world was just beginning to recognize the strength of Asian badminton.
However, that glory was not the icon's only legacy. He was a hero of the Thomas Cup in 1958, when the Indonesian team conquered Malaya and seized world supremacy.
He repeated this achievement in the 1961 and 1964 editions, being the leading singles player with an almost perfect record. Tan was also crowned the gold medal at the 1962 Asian Games, after overcoming the resistance of Teh Kew San in the final.
Together with other Indonesian representatives, he brought badminton not only as a sport, but also as the nation's identity and pride.
Off the court, Tan Joe Hok continued his education at Baylor University in the United States, studying chemistry and biology. But his love for the homeland never faded. He returned, dedicating himself to coaching and mentoring Indonesian youths.
He also tried his career abroad as a badminton coach in Mexico and Hong Kong, but later returned to Indonesia and became a coach at PB Djarum in 1982.
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