Malaysian Doubles Duo Sets Sights on Top 10 Ranking
National men’s doubles badminton stars Man wei Chong and Tee Kai wun are setting their sights on a top 10 world ranking in 2025. Despite a commendable 2024 season,the pair believes they have more to achieve.
While reaching the final of the prestigious Super 1000 Indonesian Open in June was a highlight,Kai Wun acknowledges that it fell short of their aspirations. the duo also faced inconsistency throughout the year, ultimately missing out on qualification for the World Tour Finals in Hangzhou.
“Our performance improved compared to two years ago, but the progress wasn’t as significant as we hoped,” Kai Wun admitted. “Reaching only one tournament final while suffering losses, particularly in the quarter-finals, was disappointing. Next year, we’re determined to excel in every competition we enter.”
currently ranked world No. 14, the 24-year-old kai Wun expressed disappointment at missing out on the World Tour Finals.early exits in their last three tournaments – the Denmark Open, Japan Masters, and China Masters – dashed their hopes.
However, Kai Wun is choosing to learn from these setbacks and focus on the future. The Malaysian Open, scheduled for january 7-12, marks the start of their 2025 campaign.
“We recognize that our recent mistakes stemmed from the immense pressure we placed on ourselves to qualify for the Finals,” Kai Wun reflected. “We’re aiming for a fresh start at the Malaysian Open, concentrating on one match at a time.”
The pair’s ambition to break into the top 10 reflects their unwavering commitment to improvement and their desire to establish themselves as a dominant force in men’s doubles badminton.
Can Man Wei Chong & Tee Kai Wun Crack teh Badminton Top 10?
(An exclusive interview with former Malaysian Doubles Champion, Tan Wee Kiong)
We welcome back Tan Wee Kiong, a name synonymous with Malaysian badminton success, for a candid discussion about the current state of Malaysian doubles and the ambitions of the rising stars, Man Wei Chong and Tee Kai wun. Welcome back,Wee Kiong!
Wee kiong: Thank you for inviting me. It’s always a pleasure to talk badminton!
Let’s jump right in. Man Wei Chong and Tee Kai Wun are setting thier sights on a top 10 world ranking in 2025. Do you think it’s a realistic goal considering their performance in 2024?
Wee Kiong: I think it’s definitely achievable. They’re young, talented, and hungry for success. Reaching the final of the Indonesian Open was a tremendous feat. However, consistency is key at this level. Their early exits in later tournaments highlight the need for a bit more mental toughness.
They’ve openly spoken about the pressure they felt trying to qualify for the World Tour Finals. Do you think that was a factor in their recent losses?
Wee Kiong: Absolutely. Professional badminton is as much a mental game as it is a physical one. As a former player myself,I know how that pressure mounts as you near big tournaments. They’re learning, though, which is crucial.Recognizing these weaknesses allows them to work on specific strategies for handling pressure situations in the future.
Their ambition is commendable, but it’s a fiercely competitive field. What advice would you give Man Wei Chong and Tee Kai Wun as they push towards the top 10?
Wee Kiong: My advice would be to focus on the process, not just the outcome. Every match is a learning opportunity. I’d urge them to concentrate on their strengths, build on their tactical plays, and work on minimizing unforced errors. Mental fortitude, continuous enhancement, and sticking to a solid game plan are key to climbing the rankings.
Do you think their style of play is suited for success at the highest level?
wee Kiong: They possess a dynamic playing style with good offensive capabilities. however, they need to refine their defensive strategies and develop a more consistent net game to compete with the top teams.
Based on your experience, what are some areas they should particularly focus on during their training?
Wee Kiong: I’d say physical conditioning and stamina are paramount.
Doubles badminton is incredibly fast-paced and demanding. Enhancing their physical endurance will allow them to maintain intensity throughout each match. in addition, working with a sports psychologist could be immensely beneficial in developing mental resilience and managing pressure.
Wee Kiong, it’s been engaging to hear your insights. Any final words of encouragement for our young hopefuls?
Wee Kiong: I’ve seen their dedication and potential firsthand.
With the right mindset, hard work, and a bit of guidance, they can definitely achieve their goal. The Malaysian badminton scene needs new stars, and I believe Man Wei Chong and Tee Kai Wun have what it takes to shine brightly on the world stage.
We’d love to hear from our readers! Do you think Man Wei Chong & Tee Kai Wun have what it takes to break into the top 10? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
