KUALA LUMPUR – Chen Tang Jie and Toh Ee Wei are determined to secure victory at the coming Malaysia Masters despite facing numerous challenges in preparation.
The Super 500 tournament, set to commence on May 21, presents a significant opportunity for the mixed doubles duo.
Their coach, Nova Widianto, had previously expressed confidence in their potential to become champions in this year’s tournament, citing their status as top seeds.
However, Tang Jie and Ee Wei have opted not to set any specific targets to avoid placing unnecessary pressure on themselves.
The last Malaysian mixed doubles pair to claim the Malaysia Masters was Tan Kian Meng and Lai Pei Jing seven years ago.
Tang Jie and Ee Wei understand the magnitude of their task and are diligently working to convert their hard work into podium success.
“Ee Wei and I always discuss ways to improve, not only during tournaments but also in training sessions, especially focusing on mental strength,” said Tang Jie.
“During training sessions, we are very serious and committed. This is a positive thing for us. Occasionally we have disagreements, but our goal remains the same.
“For me, being the top seed is just a position, we prefer not to be bothered by that.”
Regarding their opening match against Thailand’s Pakkapon Teeraratsakul and Phataimas Muenwong, Tang Jie acknowledges the challenge but remains undeterred.
The pair, ranked ninth globally, are familiar with facing top opponents and unfazed by the Badminton World Federation’s recently introduced match draw format, where the draw will only be released a week before a tournament begins.
“It’s hard to predict the impact of the new draw format, we’ve already faced most of the top 32 pairs in the world, so I don’t think it will affect us much,” he added. – May 17, 2024