KUALA LUMPUR: Men's doubles player Aaron Chia has shown what it means to have a monster mentality.
The 26-year-old revealed to Timesport that he will only think about enjoying or taking a break after his retirement.
Aaron's comments came after he and his world No. 3 partner Soh Wooi Yik decided to withdraw from last week's Super 750 French Open due to an injury to the latter.
A week prior, the 2022 world champions had lifted their maiden World Tour title, when they clinched the Super 750 Denmark Open crown in Odense.
"To be honest, we didn't think about taking a break from our hectic tournament schedule.
"As high performance athletes, we understand that this is part and parcel of our careers. It's our responsibility.
"Furthermore, our European tour had been planned in advance.
"The decision to withdraw from the French Open was solely due to Wooi Yik's injury, which was beyond our control.
"If it wasn't for that, we would have played on.
"I don't really like saying we need a break. Now is not the time to think about this.
"While we do have families and personal lives, my focus on enjoying life or taking a break is something I'll reserve for my retirement," said Aaron.
Since winning the 2019 Sea Games gold medal, Aaron-Wooi Yik, who are expected to move one rung up to world No. 2 tomorrow, have consistently achieved podium finishes in major events.
These include winning an Olympic bronze in 2021, along with World Championships and Asian Games bronze medals earlier this year.
In an earlier report, BA of Malaysia (BAM) coaching director Rexy Mainaky revealed that the national body is considering a new programme for Aaron-Wooi Yik to ensure they peak at next year's Paris Olympics.
For now, Aaron-Wooi Yik are expected to make a return at the Kumamoto Masters in Japan on Nov 14-19.