KUALA LUMPUR – Former Badminton Association Malaysia (BAM) shuttler K. Letshanaa makes it to the 20th Malaysian Games (Sukma) badminton semi-final after beating Johor’s Myisha Khairul at the Axiata Arena, Bukit Jalil today.
The Selangor player defeated second-seed Myisha 23-21, 21-13 in 36 minutes.
Speaking to the press, Letshanaa said her victory today was made possible by the support from her family and friends as they showed up to the venue to give the 19-year-old full support.
“My family, my friends, and my parents’ friends were here today to support me.
“I am happy they showed up because they gave me the confidence to play and win,” she added.
Letshanaa, who left the national set-up earlier this year due to a back injury, is on a comeback trail and pointed out that she is still a force to be reckoned with.
Unlike the other top players who have the best coaches in town, Letshanaa currently trains with the 23-year-old professional player, her brother K. Jothiswaran and her father, A. Karupathevan.
“They understand how I play and think. They are able to know the environment where I can thrive and also plan the right strategy for me.
“It is also easier to plan my schedules with them.
“One advantage of training with your family is that they know you inside out, said Letshanaa.
After Sukma, Letshanaa will compete in two tournaments in Australia and another in New Zealand next month.
However, she is currently facing difficulties in securing sponsorships.
“At the moment I have nothing, but I am in talks with a couple of sponsors.
“I am also working on getting a crowdfund.
“That is why I need to work hard in this Sukma, which would give me a better chance in securing sponsorships,” she said.
Letshanaa will take on fourth-seed Tan Zhing Yi of Penang for a place in the final on Saturday.
Zhing Yi defeated Kuala Lumpur’s Ong Xin Yee in straight sets, 21-14, 21-15 in 34 minutes. – The Vibes, September 22, 2022
