It was love at first sight for Woon Fui

PETALING JAYA: It was love at first sight for former international shuttler Lin Woon Fui when he set eyes on squash player Delia Arnold during a motivation camp 11 years ago.

Yesterday, the duo celebrated their love with a colourful wedding ceremony that brought together most of the big names from the country’s top two racquet sports at the Sunway Hotel in Petaling Jaya.

The 30-year-old Woon Fui, a finalist in the 2003 World Cup and 2006 Malaysian Open with Mohd Fairuzizuan Mohd Tazari, had given up competitive badminton but is fully supportive of his wife’s squash career.

In fact, he will be cheering for the 28-year-old Delia at the World Open in Penang from March 17-23.

National No. 3 Delia, the daughter of former national squash coach Raymond Arnold, is one of the four players playing in the world meet in Penang. World No. 1 Nicol David and Low Wee Wern (world No. 6) are also in the fray together with wildcard entry Vanessa Raj.

Woon Fui, or fondly known as Robert, said he could still recall being smitten by Delia at the motivation camp organised by National Sports Council (NSC).

“There were hundreds of us from different sports but I spotted her. She has the most beautiful eyes,” he said.

“I am grateful that I found a supportive partner. Both of us have big ambitions in sports and can help lift one another up during tough times,” said Woon Fui, who gave up his spot in the Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM) in 2009 after growing disenchanted with the numerous changes of partnerships.

He now runs his own badminton academy in a bid to nurture young badminton enthusiasts.

Asked if he had debated with Delia which racquet sport was better, Woon Fui said with a smile: “We have a good understanding of each other’s professional careers. I play squash too and it is very challenging and demanding. Delia also joins me to play badminton.

“For us, both are exceptionally great sports. I am not saying this because I am her husband now,” he said in jest.