WOMEN’S doubles shuttler Vivian Hoo has done it again.
The experienced Vivian guided first-timer Chow Mei Kuan as they disposed of England’s Lauren Smith-Sarah Walker 21-12, 21-12 to claim the women’s doubles gold after a lop-sided final at the Cararra Sports and Leisure Centre.
It was also Vivian’s second Commonwealth Games gold medal. She won the doubles with Woon Khe Wei at the 2014 Glasgow Games but Khe Wei had to skip this year’s edition due to injury.
It was Malaysia’s second badminton gold at the Games after Lee Chong Wei’s victory in the men’s singles.
And thanks to Mei Kuan-Vivian, Malaysia ended their campaign in the 28th Commonwealth Games with a medal haul of 7-5-12 to finish as the 12th best team.
They surpassed the medal haul of 6-7-6 achieved in Glasgow.
Vivian dedicated the victory to the Malaysian badminton team.
“I’m happy to contribute one gold medal. It’s a win for the badminton team.
“We did not meet the three-gold medal target but I know all of them played their hearts out,” said Vivian.
“None of us came here to lose but unfortunately, for some of us, it wasn’t their day. I do hope the fans will keep supporting us,” she said.
Top seeds Goh V Shem-Tan Wee Kiong settled for a bronze in the men’s doubles and top seeds Goh Soon Huat-Shevon Lai Jemie crashed out in the mixed doubles quarter-finals.
Vivian also credited Mei Kuan for doing well on her first big stage.
“She handled the pressure well. She made mistakes but she always bounces back – that’s the right attitude.
“I hope she has learnt from this partnership and will go on to achieve great things with her partner (Lee Meng Yean).”
Said Mei Kuan: “I’ve only come here as a last-minute replacement. I’ve learnt much from my seniors here. It has been a great experience and winning a gold is special.”
Already a subscriber? Log in
Get 20% OFF The Star Digital Access
Cancel anytime. Ad-free. Unlimited access with perks.
