KUALA LUMPUR – Professional women’s singles shuttler Goh Jin Wei had a short run at the 2023 Malaysia Masters after being knocked out early by Germany’s Yvonne Li, 21-17, 17-21, 21-15 at the Axiata Arena today.
Facing her opponent for the fourth time, Jin Wei went into the match with two wins under her belt, but their last meeting at the 2023 All England Championship ended with Jin Wei retiring due to stomach cramps.
After the match, a clearly frustrated Jin Wei put the blame on herself, stating that the hectic schedule had taken a toll on her body.
“Since the Sudirman Cup last week, there was only a few days of break in between before the Masters began.
“Even though it was just a few days, I have to make sure that I utilise each day for my recovery.
“But I am really frustrated with myself because I did not take care of my body well during that time,” said the teary-eyed shuttler.
The 23-year-old shuttler said she could not give her best due to the lack of a support system.
As such, she hoped to be included in the Road to Gold (RTG) programme so she can have access to their facilities.
“I hope they will include me in RTG so I could utilise the physiotherapy service every week provided for the elite players.
“I hope to be able to use their facilities because that will surely help with my performance.
“I had that support during the Sudirman Cup last week, we had treatments both before and after the tournament,” she said.
The two-time World Junior Champion added that her opponent did play a tough game today seeing as it was a Super 500 tournament that kickstarted the 2024 Paris Olympics qualification.
“Every opponent is tough, but today she forced me to my limits, which was her strategy and it worked out for her today, so the credit goes to Yvonne,” she added.
Meanwhile, it was also disappointment for men’s doubles pair Tan Kian Meng-Tan Wee Kiong as they fell to Scottish team Alexander Dunn-Adam Hall 23-21, 14-21, 21-16.
Having entered the first round after winning in the qualification match yesterday against Canada’s Kevin Lee-Ty Alexander Lindeman 21-16, 21-11, the 43rd seed Malaysians could not keep up with the 29th ranked players from Scotland.
Dunn-Hall will now face Malaysians Man Wei Chong-Tee Kai Wun in the second round tomorrow. – The Vibes, May 24, 2023
