Exams over, Sivasangari now aims to improve world rankings
KUALA LUMPUR: S. Sivasangari has had a good outing this year despite her juggling act.
The 18-year-old Kedahan, who studied for her O-Levels this year, did well to win three Professional Squash Association (PSA) tournaments.
And with her studies over, she is looking forward to the new year as she wants to improve on her world rankings.
Sivasangari is currently ranked 49th and is hoping to break into the top 30.
“Next year will be hectic as I will be competing in about 10 PSA competitions.
“I will also make my debut in the Commonwealth Games in Gold Coast (from April 4-15) and the Asian Games (in Jakarta from Aug 18 to Sept 2).
“I am excited to play in both Games although I’m not sure in which event,” said Sivasangari.
“I’m pleased with my performance this year. My mission in 2018 is to start beating higher-ranked players and move up the rankings.
“I hope to break into the top 30 by end of next year,” added Sivasangari.
She made a memorable debut at the Kuala Lumpur SEA Games in August with two golds – individual and mixed doubles.
A month later, she bagged two PSA titles – Beijing Challenge Cup and the Malaysian Tour N. 11.
In Beijing, the third-seeded Sivasangari upset second seed Vanessa Chu of Hong Kong in the final.
Sivasangari also scored a shock win in the Malaysian Tour when she defeated top seed Rachel Arnold to claim the title.
Sivasangari, who finished as runners-up in the Australian Open in Darwin last month, will close the year by featuring in the CAS International Squash Championship in Islamabad, Pakistan from Dec 19-22.
She will open her campaign against sixth seed Nada Abbas of Egypt in the opening round.
Reigning Asian champion and top seed Annie Au of Hong Kong will take on Rachel in the first round.