NATIONAL singles coach Misbun Sidek regards Lee Chong Wei as the most professional among Malaysian shuttlers presently and thus his successful run on the international circuit this year.

Chong Wei used to be easily distracted by pressure and personal matters, and uncomfortable in the presence of the media, but Misbun believes the player now realises that this had been affecting his performances.

Chong Wei now talks freely with the media, is never afraid of stating his goals and has also developed the maturity to keep his mind clear of any personal issues.

Misbun has nothing but praise for his charge who is always early for training, never complains about tough sessions and has not missed a session in preparing for the Beijing Olympics.

The coach believes Chong Wei's positive change can help his cause in Beijing where he aims to clinch a medal.
"Chong Wei has become very professional. I haven't seen any Malaysian player become so responsible in a long time. You don't have to monitor him in training because he enjoys what he is doing," said Misbun yesterday.

"He is always on time for training and willingly goes through any tough drills without complaining. Chong Wei is very committed and the younger players look up to him. He is very relaxed and if you ask him to give a pep-talk to the back-up players, he doesn't hold back anything and shares whatever information he feels can help them.

"Even the media may have sensed how approachable he is these days and all this has actually helped him grow into a greater player. The change has also reduced the pressure on him.

"As a coach, I don't need anymore commitment and I sincerely want him to be rewarded with a medal in Beijing as he really deserves it."

Chong Wei, in turn, has much respect and faith in Misbun and is become a better player.

The shuttler did admit though that there have been times when he used to get headaches because of strenuous training but now claims he has overcome that barrier.

"I realise that everything is about my own approach and if I tune my mind to go through the tough routines I will enjoy it as in the long term it produces consistent results," said Chong Wei.

"There were times I suffered headaches from continuous tough sessions but I didn't give in to the pressure. I've learned to enjoy training and accept pressure. "When I am stuck, I know I can always look to Misbun and my mental trainer Fred (Tan) as they are always there to help out."

Remaining calm despite the mounting pressure on Chong Wei to win a medal in Beijing is good news as a cool head can take a player far in the Olympics.