BA of Malaysia (BAM) coaching director Wong Choong Hann has played down expectations ahead of the Malaysia Masters, which begins at the Axiata Arena in Bukit Jalil today.
He said it’s unlikely that national shuttlers will enjoy the kind of run they did last year, when several Malaysians unexpectedly rose to the occasion to reach five semi-finals and one final (men’s doubles).
“Yes, we saw a few upsets last year, which was great. But I don’t think we can compare or expect the same thing this year.
“We’re in the final phase of Olympic qualification and every top player is here to give his or her best to earn valuable ranking points. They won’t be making the trip to lose.
“Our players, regardless of whether they are underdogs or not, should just give their best and stay focused,” said former World No 1 Choong Hann when met at Academy Badminton Malaysia (ABM) yesterday.
He also believes that it’s time the likes of Lee Zii Jia (men’s singles) and Aaron Chia-Soh Wooi Yik stamped their mark with a title at this year’s edition of the BWF World Tour Super 500 event.
“I think they’ve always had the fire and desire to achieve it. They just need to motivate and push themselves for that last crucial bit.
“Winning the Sea Games gold has definitely boosted their confidence. It’s also important because, from a technical point of view, they managed to shoulder expectations well.
“They just need to be hopeful and control their emotions, focus and expectations,” Choong Hann added.
Zii Jia, who was yesterday unveiled as the latest 100PLUS ambassador, will open his campaign against third seed Anders Antonsen of Denmark tomorrow.
Aaron-Wooi Yik, meanwhile, will meet former teammates and 2016 Rio Olympic Games silver medallist Goh V Shem-Tan Wee Kiong in their opening tie today.