WEE WERN MAKES WINNING RETURN

Former World No 5 signals her comeback to top-level with an emotional Malaysia Open victory

LOW Wee Wern signalled her return to top-level squash with an emotional victory at the Malaysian Open in Bukit Jalil yesterday. Playing in her first PSA tournament in 20 months, Wee Wern churned out a dominant 11-8, 11-7, 11-4 win in the final over fourth seed Satomi Watanabe (Japan) at the National Squash Centre to clinch her maiden Malaysian Open title.

The former World No 5, who has struggled with serious knee problems in recent seasons, hopes her win will inspire others to do the same. The Malaysian Open is her eighth career title.

“Satomi gave it her all, she didn’t give up. I am happy that I managed to stick to my game plan,

“I knew I had to be more steady. I had more experience then her playing in these (important) situations which was an advantag e for me,” said Wee Wern, who had not won a tour title since the 2014 China Open.

“I have always wanted to inspire others, not only in squash but in life in general.

“I have been out (injured) for 20 months and there were times people doubted whether I would step back on court again.

“Even I had doubts as well as there was a period that I was unable to walk and I had also spent six weeks on crutches.

“To be able to start running again and go on to win the Malaysian Open has been a journey.

“I could not have done it without the support of my team and my sponsors who stuck by me for two years even though I could not play a single tournament. I am very grateful for that.”

The men’s final saw Qatar’s Abdulla Mohd Al Tamimi clinching the title with a hard-fought 5-11, 12-10, 11-1, 7-11, 11-5 win over Hong Kong’s Tsz Fung Yip.

Abdulla said he had expected the final to be a close affair.

“It’s always tough playing a five-setter but I was expecting to play over an hour today.

“I was a bit nervous in the first game but found my rhythm from the second game,” said Abdulla.

“I am really happy, this is my first tournament since April and all this is preparation for the Indonesia Asian Games next month.”

Wee Wern took home US$2,347 (RM9,524) while Abdulla pocketed US$5,866 (RM23,816) for winning the Malaysian Open. The tournament was organised with the support of the MRCB Foundation this year.