Badminton

Jun Hao beats June Wei in Malang, dedicates title to late grandfather

KUALA LUMPUR: National men's singles shuttler, Leong Jun Hao got the breakthrough he needed when he clinched the Super 100 Indonesia Masters title today.

The 2017 Asian junior champion landed his maiden World Tour crown after downing former national teammate, Cheam June Wei 9-21, 22-20, 21-19 in the final at the Gor Platinum in Malang.

When contacted by Timesport, the 23-year-old Jun Hao said it was high time he bagged a title worthy of his experience after several missed opportunities in the past.

Plagued by injuries since making the transition from the junior squad in 2018, Jun Hao also dedicated the title to his late grandfather, Low King who died last week in Bentong.

"My biggest motivation here in Malang has been my family, coaches, and my beloved grandfather who passed away a few days ago.

"I want to dedicate this title to him," said Jun Hao, whose best achievement prior to this was reaching the final of the Super 300 Thailand Masters in 2018.

Jun Hao, who oftentimes is overshadowed by his far established national teammate, world No 32 Ng Tze Yong, wants to be more consistent after this.

"This is the breakthrough I needed. I'm very happy to have finally won my first World Tour title.

"I hope I will build on this win and play more consistently after this," added the 2018 Finnish Open champion.

Jun Hao is slated to play in the Malaysia International Challenge next month, but it may be postponed because of the 15th general election on Nov 19.

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