KUALA LUMPUR: National badminton player Soong Joo Ven is determined to prove those who have questioned his inclusion in the Thomas Cup qualifying squad wrong.
Joo Ven, who said the fans have a right to voice their opinions, is now only focused on preparing for the India Masters next week.
"They (fans) have their own views and I have to take it positively," said the Kuala Lumpur-born shuttler.
Joo Ven did well to defeat Indonesians Sony Dwi Kuncoro and Fikri Ihsandi Hadmadi in the Malaysia Masters qualifiers. He, however, went down in straight sets to Frenchman Brice Leverdez in the opening round of the main draw.
The defeat had fans questioning his selection for the squad for the Asia Team Championship, which serves as a qualifier for the Thomas Cup.
"I hope to do well in the India Masters as every tournament is different. I will take it one match at a time," added Joo Ven.
"I feel quite relieved that the coach (Datuk Misbun Sidek) continues to believe in our capabilities. I also believe in my own abilities.
"I just have to forget about what happened at the Malaysia Masters. I was thinking too much then and wanted to win so badly that it affected my performance."
Misbun has stated that he will maintain the same group of players for the Asia Team Championships and would only make changes closer to the Thomas Cup, if necessary.
Translated from Harian Metro