ADVICE FROM DOWN UNDER
Renuga tells Malaysian shuttlers to work hard and not go for ‘quick money’
MALAYSIAN-BORN Australian Renuga Veeran says shuttlers should work hard for success instead of resorting to match-fixing for quick cash. The 32-year-old, who has represented Australia in various tournaments, said efforts must be made to ensure the sport is clean from unhealthy activities.
“Not all players are out to make money through unethical means.
“Most players work very hard in the hope of becoming a top player,” said Renuga, who will be making her third appearance for Australia at next month’s Gold Coast Commonwealth Games.
Renuga, an Olympian who plays doubles, said the shuttlers and fans in Australia are also against match-fixing.
“The reason I am a competitive player is because I love badminton... it is not just about money.
“Those involved in match-fixing will eventually regret their actions,” said Renuga, a former Malaysian junior champion.
On the Commonwealth Games, Renuga said: “So far, everything is going smoothly in training, even though I have not been playing regularly for the last three years.
“However, I am training very hard for my third outing and hopefully, I can perform well. The target is, of course, to win a medal.
“In my previous outings in New Delhi (2010) and Glasgow (2014), I managed to reach the women’s doubles quarter-finals with Leanner Choo.
“I hope the draw will be favourable to us this time,” she said.
On Malaysia’s chances in the Gold Coast, Renuga said the Lee Chong Weiled team will definitely win medals.
“They will be among the top teams to watch in the Commonwealth Games,” Renuga added.