Jun Hao determined for a podium finish
SHUTTLER Leong Jun Hao is ready to give his best at the World Junior Championships in Yogyakarta, despite the fact that he has just recovered from a back injury.
The 18-year-old reigning Asian junior champion admitted that while he is still far from his best, he is bent on a podium finish as the competition gets underway with the mixed team event tomorrow.
Jun Hao, who left for Indonesia with the national squad yesterday, said: “My target is to secure a medal as this will be my final appearance at the world juniors.
“It is a little unfortunate for me to pick up an injury last week but thankfully it is not so serious.
“Hopefully I will feel much better in the next few days.”
When asked about Malaysia’s chances at this year’s edition, Jun Hao said: “I think we have good team with equal chances of doing well in both the team and individual event.
“After making it to the mixed team final last year, we have learned a lot. I believe we have a much better chance this year.”
Bukit Jalil Sports School (BJSS) coach Kwan Yoke Meng has set a target of two titles for the squad this year.
The last time Malaysia won a title was through girls’ singles Goh Jin Wei at the 2015 edition in Peru.
Malaysia will open their campaign in Group C1 tomorrow against Armenia. Also in the group are New Zealand. Fabian Peter