KUALA LUMPUR: World No. 6 Low Wee Wern checked into the final of the TC National Championships at the National Squash Centre in Bukit Jalil yesterday – and said that she does not feel under pressure at all.
The 23-year-old defending champion enjoyed another easy run-out – breezing past Zulhijjah Azan 11-4, 11-2, 11-2 in the semi-finals.
And Wee Wern, who is set to face world No. 1 Nicol David in the final, admits that playing against her more illustrious Penangite has taken away all the pressure from her.
Nicol was in top form as she saw off national No. 3 Delia Arnold 11-5, 11-8, 12-10.
“It’s great to get back on the glass court, where the ball is livelier and more consistent,” said Wee Wern.
“I was struggling a little with my form earlier and now I feel I’m getting better ... more comfortable being on court.
“As for the final, there is definitely no pressure on.
“She is someone I have a lot of respect for and it’ll be great to get on court and try to get something against her.”
The national No. 2, however, was quick to brush off her worst playing experience against Nicol.
“Well, I got chopped ... badly in the second round of the Australian Open last year and I didn’t stand a chance (against her),” said Wee Wern a smile.
“But that was when I was still ranked outside the top 10.
“Now, it’ll be different ... ultimately, everyone’s goal is to beat Nicol.
“It’ll also be a good gauge of where I stand against the top players.
“I’ll soon meet Nicol a lot more often on the Women’s Squash Association (WSA) Tour.
“But for now, it’ll be great for Malaysians to come and watch the final because it’s not often we have two top 10 players in the Nationals final.”
Nicol, is seeking to add to her 2010 and 2011 national titles.
She believes that playing Wee Wern will make the Nationals final a whole lot more interesting.
“It’s good to face Wee Wern in the final ... it’s like a Penang final,” joked Nicol.
“But seriously, we’ll both be aiming to win the Nationals. And with two top 10 players in the final, it will definitely be exciting.”
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