KUALA LUMPUR – National men’s singles star Ng Tze Yong has climbed three spots to become the world’s number 25.
Tze Yong proved to be progressing smoothly from last year after he successfully achieved his target to break into the top 30 by the end of 2022, ranked 28th.
The 22-year-old shuttler, when met at Akademi Badminton Malaysia yesterday, said that he was happy with his improvement, particularly his stamina.
“I noticed some changes in myself. My stamina has improved a lot,” he said.
“But I also have to observe how I perform in my future tournaments, especially the (upcoming) Super 1000 Malaysia Open because this would be my biggest tournament.”
The Johor native will make his Super 1000 debut at the season-opener Malaysia Open, which will take place on January 10-15 at Axiata Arena, Bukit Jalil.
The upgraded tournament will be one of four Super 1000 events, including the All England Championships, Indonesia Open, and China Open.
Going into 2023, Tze Yong is determined to ascend further into the world’s top 20.
“Yes, my target is higher now. I wish to achieve more. This year I wish to climb higher and make it to the top 20 (in the world).
“I am excited for the Malaysia Open. I will do my best.
“I think all the tournaments that I am participating in are tough. I promise to put in my best effort and focus.”
Tze Yong is set to face 28th-ranked Nhat Nguyen of Ireland in the opening round, while world number two and former teammate Lee Zii Jia is set to meet rising Japanese player Kodai Naraoka.
If both Malaysians clear the round, it will be a local derby match in the round of 16. – The Vibes, January 4, 2022
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