KUALA LUMPUR – Commonwealth Games-bound Goh Jin Wei almost blacked out at the opening round of the Malaysia Masters today during her match against American Zhang Beiwen.
However, she quickly got back up before her 16th-ranked opponent could notice the change in her behaviour. The Malaysian notched a 21-19, 21-18 upset in 35 minutes.
Jin Wei, who is ranked 69th in the world, said she had to adapt to a new diet since her colectomy surgery in 2019.
“It happened when we were changing the court after the first match.
“Maybe because it was a point-by-point match. I was trying to focus and catch up to my opponent.
“It is difficult, especially adapting to a new diet. It did not give me much energy,” she said to the media after her match at the Axiata Arena, Bukit Jalil.
Since her surgery in 2019, Jin Wei has been trying different playing techniques that best fit her physical condition as she said her physical capabilities have not been the same.
Under the coaching of Indonesian Nova Armada as an independent player at the Sports Affairs Academy, she said she is only focusing on quality training rather than quantity as she can no longer cope with the intensity like before.
“So far, I am still seeking for the new ‘formula’. I have been trying different ways of training to adapt to my new condition.
“I am grateful for all the support provided, including the private sector companies for sponsoring us as well as the Sports Affair Academy for my training.
“I believe that God has the best plans for me. Everyone has their own difficulties. This is one of mine.”
Jin Wei will be up against second-ranked Tai Tzu Ying of Taipei in the second round.
Their last meeting was also on Jin Wei’s home soil during the 2018 Celcom Axiata Malaysia Open, where the Malaysian lost in straight games 15-21, 15-21. – The Vibes, July 6, 2022
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