PETALING JAYA: Winning a small tournament like the Singapore International Challenge is a big step for women’s singles shuttler Goh Jin Wei.
Yesterday, the 26-year-old finally tasted success again after years of struggles and setbacks when she defeated Indonesia’s Komang Ayu 21-11, 21-11 in just 30 minutes at the Singapore Badminton Hall.
The title in Singapore is Jin Wei’s first senior crown since winning the SEA Games gold in Kuala Lumpur in 2017 at the age of 17.
She went on to win the Youth Olympic Games in Buenos Aires and the World Junior Championships in Markham, both in 2018, but a stomach ailment soon after saw her career take a downward spiral.
Coach Nova Armada hopes that savouring a title after such a long wait will reignite Jin Wei’s hunger.
“What’s distinct about Jin Wei lately is her desire to improve. Her training load has also increased and I think that led her to victory,” said Nova.
“I entered her in this lower-ranked tournament so she can get used to winning again. It can get frustrating when you keep losing early or bow out in the semi-finals or final.
“I hope this win will improve her self-belief.
“We will also work harder to increase her stamina as I plan to register her for more lower-ranked tournaments.”
Jin Wei will next compete in the Super 100 China Masters in Ruichang from March 10-15. She will then step up to the Super 300 in Taiwan and the Super 500 tournaments in Thailand, Malaysia and Australia.
Nova wants Jin Wei to challenge the world’s top 20 players consistently in Super 500 events and above.
“There is no other way except to train harder to prepare for these upcoming tournaments,” said Nova.
The win is a timely boost for Jin Wei, who has been called up by the Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM) for the Uber Cup Finals in Horsens, Denmark, from April 24-May 3.
Ultimately, Nova hopes Jin Wei can qualify for the Los Angeles Olympic Games and fulfil her childhood dream.
