KUALA LUMPUR: Despite an early exit from the Thailand International Challenge in Korat, national back-up shuttler Justin Hoh can find solace in his long-awaited return to competition.
On Wednesday, the highly-rated 19-year-old's first outing in three months ended in disappointment, losing 21-19, 17-21, 21-14 to world No. 67 Ayush Shetty of India.
Nonetheless, Justin departed the tournament with a positive outlook, having competed without pain.
"It marks my first tournament of the year following my recovery from injury. I'm taking it slow and giving my best effort," said Justin.
"I will set aside the results for now and focus on my recovery, aiming to play without discomfort.
"So far, things have been promising. My goal is to rediscover my rhythm.
"I am grateful for the opportunity to step back onto the court and cherish it deeply."
On Tuesday, Justin cleared his opening hurdle against India's T. Rushendra by chalking up a convincing 22-20, 21-8 win.
Following a string of injuries plaguing the national singles department, with key players Lee Zii Jia and Ng Tze Yong sidelined, Justin could be set for a potential call-up to the Thomas Cup Finals next month.
Considered one of the country's most promising prospects, Justin faced several setbacks in his senior career largely due to injury proneness.
Since his promotion to the senior team in 2022, Justin has shown promising performances, clinching two titles — the 2022 Malaysia International Challenge and the 2023 Uganda International Challenge.
In March last year, Justin reached the semi-finals of the China Masters Super 100 before being sidelined for eight months due to an Achilles tendon rupture the following month.
Upon his return in December, Justin performed well at the Guwahati Masters until he suffered a foot injury during the semi-finals against Indonesia's Alvi Wijaya Chairullah.
Little did he know that this injury would sideline him for another three months.