From Rising Star to Paralympic Contender: Mohd Fareez Anuar’s Meteoric Rise in Para Badminton
Mohd Fareez Anuar, a 28-year-old para badminton sensation, is still processing the unbelievable strides he’s made in just two years. Initially aiming for a three-year timeline to reach a competitive level, Fareez has already achieved remarkable success, including representing Malaysia at the prestigious Paris 2024 Paralympic Games.
“It feels surreal,” Fareez admitted in an interview with Bernama. “I never imagined reaching this point so quickly. The progress has been astonishing, exceeding my own expectations.”
Fareez attributes his rapid development to the tailored training programme designed by his coach, Nova Armada. Armada’s dynamic approach,which incorporates varied training regimens based on upcoming tournaments,has proven highly effective.
“The balance between intense training and periods of relaxation is crucial,” Fareez explained.”it keeps us motivated and prevents burnout, allowing us to enjoy the game more.”
Training alongside world number one and two-time Paralympic gold medalist Cheah Liek Hou has also been instrumental in Fareez’s journey.
despite his remarkable performance at the Paralympics, reaching the semi-finals, Fareez still grapples with the disappointment of not securing a medal. The memory of his bronze medal match loss to Indonesia’s Dheva Anrimusthi lingers.
“It’s a tough experience to process,” Fareez confessed. “The desire to bring home a medal was strong, and the loss is still challenging to accept.”
This disappointment was compounded by another close defeat to Dheva in the final of the 2024 International bahrain Para Badminton Championships. However, Fareez found redemption in the doubles competition, partnering with Liek Hou to clinch the SU5 men’s doubles title.
Looking ahead, Fareez has set his sights on breaking into the top three world rankings in 2025. He is currently undergoing rigorous training and is scheduled to return to competition in March at the 2025 Spanish Para Badminton Championships I and II.
From Silver Linings to Golden Goals: An Interview with Para Badminton Star Mohd Fareez Anuar
Mohd Fareez Anuar burst onto the para badminton scene like a phoenix, soaring to unexpected heights in just two short years. This 28-year-old Malaysian athlete defied all odds, securing a place at the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games – a feat he envisioned accomplishing in three years. Today,we delve into fareez’s meteoric rise,dissecting the triumphs and the tribulations that have shaped his journey.
Welcome, Fareez. Your progress has truly been astounding. Did you ever imagine achieving Paralympic-level success this quickly?
“Honestly, it’s been a whirlwind. I always had the ambition, the drive, but to reach this stage so soon…it feels surreal.I’m incredibly grateful for the support system I have and the amazing coaching that has propelled me forward.”
You mentioned the importance of your coach, Nova Armada. His training program seems to be a key factor in your success. Can you elaborate on its unique aspects?
“Coach Armada has a brilliant approach. He understands the physical and mental demands of this sport. His program isn’t just about intense training; it’s about balance. He incorporates varied regimens based on upcoming tournaments, ensuring we peak at the right time. Ther’s also a focus on recovery and avoiding burnout, which is crucial in a demanding sport like ours.”
You’ve also spoken about training alongside Cheah Liek Hou, a world number one and two-time Paralympic gold medalist. What has that experience been like?
“Training with Liek Hou is inspiring. He’s a true champion, both on and off the court.His dedication, work ethic, and sportsmanship are qualities I constantly strive to emulate. He pushes me to be better, to challenge myself, and that’s invaluable.”
Despite your remarkable performance at the Paralympics, reaching the semi-finals, the desire for a medal was clearly strong. The loss to Ditch Anrimusthi in the bronze medal match must have been heartbreaking.
“It’s been a tough pill to swallow. The bronze medal match was so close, and the disappointment of not bringing home a medal lingers. It’s a reminder of how fine the margins are at this level and how much more I need to push myself.”
You faced Dheva Anrimusthi again at the 2024 International Bahrain Para Badminton Championships and suffered another defeat. How did you bounce back from that disappointment?
“Losing back-to-back to Dheva was certainly frustrating.But I refocused my energy, channeled that disappointment into determination. I’m proud that we could clinch the SU5 men’s doubles title at the same tournament, partnering with Liek Hou.”
Looking ahead,what are your ambitions for the future?
“I’m setting my sights on breaking into the top three world rankings in 2025. It’s a challenging goal, but I believe it’s attainable with consistent hard work and dedication.I’m already back in rigorous training and looking forward to competing at the 2025 Spanish Para Badminton Championships in March.”
Readers, what are your thoughts on Fareez’s journey? share your opinions on the challenges and triumphs of para athletes in the comments below.
Let’s keep the conversation going!
