Leong Aims to Prove His No. 1 BAM Ranking Amidst Challenges

dd yy October 9, 2024 9 0

Men’s singles player Leong Jun Hao understands the dedication required to advance and overcome obstacles within the national team, having been a member for seven years.

He emphasizes that sustaining a spot on the team is ultimately up to the player. “Coaches will assist, but you have to navigate the tough times on your own. Everyone must strive to demonstrate their ability to remain in the national team and improve,” says Jun Hao. “In the end, it all hinges on the player.”

As one of the longest-serving singles players, Jun Hao has worked hard to attain the No. 1 position in the Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM). “The results show my progress, and I hope to continue getting better.”

Jun Hao first showcased his potential by winning the 2017 Asian Junior Championships, but injuries delayed his rise through the ranks. The 25-year-old persevered, maintaining his place in BAM, and his determination has led him to the world No. 29 ranking, surpassing the injured Ng Tze Yong, who is now at No. 32 due to a recurring back issue this year.

Alongside Jun Hao and Tze Yong, BAM retains Justin Hoh and Eogene Ewe in the senior team, while Jacky Kok, Ong Zhen Yi, Chua Kim Sheng, and Lee Jan Jireh have been dropped.

Jun Hao credits his coaches, Hendrawan and Datuk Tey Seu Bock, for his success. “I want to thank coach Hendrawan and coach Seu Bock for helping me reach this point. I have worked with them for several years, and they’ve guided me well. I’ve learned a lot from them.”

Hendrawan is set to depart BAM at the end of the month after 15 years, while Seu Bock will transition to the junior team. Former women’s singles coach K. Yogendran has been appointed to the men’s singles team, alongside Alvin Chew, who has been with the junior team.

Regarding these transitions, Jun Hao comments, “We must accept these changes since they’re beyond our control. We need to collaborate with the new coaches and strive to become stronger. I’ve worked with Yogendran briefly before; every coach has unique strengths, and we need time to adjust to their training approaches.”

Jun Hao aims to conclude his year on a high note by performing well in his upcoming tournaments, starting with the Arctic Open in Vantaa, Finland, where he faces a tough opening match against Hong Kong’s world No. 16 Lee Cheuk Yiu.