The final hurrah
NATIONAL singles coach Misbun Sidek is not surprised with the fact that veteran Lee Chong Wei still wants to go on until the 2020 Tokyo Olympic Games.
The World No 6 will be 38 years old in 2020, but going by his recent results, the shuttler could just make it his final hurrah at the Olympics.
Chong Wei’s discipline and dedication is admired by many and Misbun believes the shuttler will still pose a serious threat in 2020.
“Despite his advanced age, Chong Wei has not slowed down. His training regime has not changed for the last 16 years. He is always the first to report for training on a daily basis and gives undivided attention during practice.
“Age is no barrier for those who have a strong desire to succeed. Chong Wei is focused on this mission.
“I believe if he sets his mind on attaining glory at the Olympics, he will achieve it,” said Misbun, who helped Chong Wei win his first Olympic silver medal at the 2008 Beijing edition.
On Sunday, Chong Wei, 36, won his 12th Malaysia Open by overcoming World No 11 Kento Momota 21-17, 23-21 in the final in Bukit Jalil.
“If you analyse the final, Momota was putting a lot of pressure on Chong Wei but the Malaysian used his experience instead of strength and power to dislodge the Japanese ace,” Misbun added.
Chong Wei is now in Jakarta for the Indonesia Open where he opens against Hong Kong’s Angus Ng Ka Long in the first round today.
He has won the Indonesia Open title six times.