A Final Farewell and a New Beginning for Chiew Sien
Lim Chiew Sien,a prominent figure in Malaysian badminton,is preparing for a tournament filled with both bittersweet emotions and exciting prospects. The upcoming Malaysian Open in Bukit Jalil marks the final chapter in Vivian Hoo’s illustrious career, and chiew Sien has the honor of being her partner for this swansong.
“Vivian has always been a source of inspiration for me,” Chiew Sien shared, reflecting on their shared history within the Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM). “It’s a privilege to stand beside her in her final tournament.”
Their partnership, forged three years ago after both players transitioned to independent careers, will culminate in a poignant farewell performance in front of their home crowd. Chiew Sien acknowledges the emotional weight of the occasion, emphasizing the need to remain focused amidst the sentimentality.While Chiew Sien prepares to bid farewell to Vivian, she is simultaneously embracing a new chapter in her career alongside wong Tien Ci in the mixed doubles. This dynamic duo, who initially focused on their respective singles disciplines, have blossomed in the mixed doubles arena this year.
Their journey together began in 2020, but it wasn’t until this year that they dedicated themselves fully to mixed doubles. The results have been remarkable. They clinched the Kazakhstan International Challenge title in April and reached the semi-finals of the Malaysia Super 100 in October.
This notable trajectory has propelled them to a career-high world ranking of No. 34, earning them a coveted spot in the malaysian Open, their first Super 1000 event together.
“We always believed in our chemistry,” Chiew Sien explained, “but initially, mixed doubles wasn’t our priority. This year, we decided to give it our all, and the results have exceeded our expectations.”
This newfound success has revitalized Chiew Sien’s career, offering a fresh viewpoint and renewed purpose. She is eager to showcase their progress at the malaysian Open, hoping to deliver a memorable performance for their home fans.
Chiew Sien’s 2023 has been marked by notable achievements. In addition to her mixed doubles success, she reached the finals of the australian Open in the women’s doubles alongside Lai Pei jing. While she remains open to future collaborations with Pei Jing,her focus is currently on solidifying her partnership with Tien Ci.
As Chiew Sien navigates this pivotal moment in her career,she embodies the spirit of resilience and adaptability,embracing both farewells and new beginnings with grace and determination.
A Candid Conversation with Chiew Sien: Endings, Beginnings, and the Allure of Mixed Doubles
Southeast Asia has long been a hotbed for badminton excellence, and Malaysia, in particular, boasts a rich history in the sport. Today, we’re blessed to have a rising star, Chiew Sien, gracing our platform.
Chiew, you’re on the cusp of a very emotional tournament – the Malaysian Open. Not only will you be competing on home soil, but you’ll also be alongside Vivian Hoo for her final professional match.How does it feel to be sharing this momentous occasion with her?
Chiew Sien: It’s truly an honor, truly a privilege. vivian has been an inspiration to me throughout my badminton journey. To stand beside her for her final tournament, especially in front of our home crowd, is something incredibly special.
Moderator: Vivian, a legend in Malaysian badminton, has definitely left an unforgettable mark. How have your training sessions been leading up to the Malaysian Open? Has the atmosphere been diffrent knowing this is her last hurrah?
Chiew Sien: The intensity hasn’t wavered. Vivian is a fierce competitor, and she’s resolute to end on a high note. There’s a palpable sense of emotions, of course, but Vivian’s professionalism and focus are unwavering.
Moderator: While you’re saying farewell to Vivian, you’re concurrently embarking on another exciting chapter with Wong Tien Ci in mixed doubles.Your partnership has been nothing short of remarkable this year. What clicked for you both?
Chiew Sien: We always believed in our chemistry, but it took us some time to fully commit to mixed doubles. This year,we decided to go all in,and thankfully,the results have been fantastic.
Moderator: Absolutely! The Kazakhstan International Challenge title and the Malaysia Super 100 semi-final showing are testament to that commitment. You’ve climbed to a career-high world ranking of No. 34, earning yourselves a spot in the Malaysian Open – a Super 1000 event. What does that mean for your partnership?
Chiew Sien: It’s a huge chance. The Malaysian Open is a prestigious tournament, and to compete against the world’s best at such an early stage in our mixed doubles journey is incredibly motivating.
Moderator: This shift to mixed doubles has undoubtedly revitalized your career.
Chiew sien: Absolutely. it has brought a fresh viewpoint, a new challenge, and I’m thoroughly enjoying it.
Moderator: Let’s talk a little about your future. You’ve also had a triumphant run in women’s doubles with Lai Pei Jing, even reaching the finals of the Australian open.
chiew Sien: That was a great experience. While I remain open to future collaborations with Pei Jing, my current focus is on solidifying my partnership with Tien Ci. We have great chemistry and a lot of potential.
Moderator: Chiew Sien, thank you for your candid insights.Your dedication and resilience are truly inspiring to young athletes, and your journey is far from over.We’re all eagerly anticipating seeing you and Tien Ci shine on the court at the malaysian Open.
Now, we’d love to hear from you! what are your thoughts on chiew Sien’s dedication to badminton and the future of mixed doubles? Let us know in the comments below!
