Vivian takes realistic approach to Sudirman Cup
AS the most senior player in the squad, Vivian Hoo does not consider it a failure if Malaysia fail to get past the group stage of the Sudirman Cup next week.
Six years ago, the national team were taken to task when they failed to reach the quarter-finals on home soil after finishing last in Group C following defeats to Taiwan (3-2) and Germany (3-2).
Vivian, 29, was a member of the squad but she was not the only one to come under fire as the Malaysian team had then boasted the likes of former World No 1 Lee Chong Wei, 2006 Asian Games champions Koo Kien Keat-Tan Boon Heong and 2016 Rio Olympic Games mixed doubles silver medallists Chan Peng Soon-Goh Liu Ying.
Fast forward to this year’s edition, Malaysia are in Group D with 10-time champions China, and last year’s Commonwealth Games winners, India.
The only difference this time is that Malaysia are without any top 10 singles player or pairs.
Taking into account the inexperience of the squad, BAM are not expecting much.
“Personally, I would not take it as a failure if Malaysia fail to get past the group stage.
“Looking at our squad, you can see that BAM have decided to go with a fresh team. If everybody gives their best and still lose, I won’t call that a failure.
“The younger players in the team should use this opportunity to rise to the occasion and shine,” said Vivian.
Six years ago, Vivian partnered Woon Khe Wei for the women’s doubles, and they lost against Taiwan and German opponents but this year, the script is looking slightly different.
Malaysia will bank on their doubles to deliver the goods as both China and India are a class above the rest in the singles.
“Preparation has been good so far but let’s be honest, China are going to be very strong. Home advantage will also boost their spirits.
“And India are Commonwealth Games champions, let’s not forget that. However, I am proud of our team, and we will all give our best,” added Vivian, who now partners Yap Cheng Wen.
Chow Mei Kuan-Lee Meng Yean form the other women’s doubles in the squad.
Malaysia’s best showing in the Sudirman Cup was in 2009 in Guangzhou, China, when they reached the last four.