Kuala Lumpur, Jan 1 (IANS): The Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM) said on Tuesday that the men's doubles pair Goh V Shem and Tan Wee Kiong, silver medallists of 2016 Olympic Games, had quit the national team.

Goh and Tan's withdrawal from the national team came shortly after the departure of their teammates Chan Peng Soon and Goh Liu Ying, who were also 2016 Olympic silver medallists, reports Xinhua news agency.

In a statement on Tuesday, the BAM said it appreciated the service of the pair for sharing the values, principles and philosophy of the Association during their 17-year term with the national team.

"After careful consideration and following discussions with various stakeholders, BAM has reached the decision to accept the resignations tendered by men's doubles pair, Goh V Shem and Tan Wee Kiong effective January 5."

Goh and Tan, both 29, were reported to have been under pressure for some time, having failed to win a title in two years after a remarkable 2016. They are ranked 14th in Badminton World Federation's (BWF) latest rankings.

The 2016 Rio Olympics silver medallists became the second notable names to leave the national team after the mixed doubles pair Chan Peng Soon and Goh Liu Ying quit in mid-December.

Chan and partner Goh had resigned from the Association to pursue an independent path.