PETALING JAYA: From a cheerleader to a podium winner, Justin Hoh’s (pic) fortunes had changed in just two just weeks.
In Hanoi for the SEA Games, the 18-year-old was only a spectator as the seniors were chosen to play over him but yesterday he played superbly to bring the cheers by winning the men’s singles title in the National Under-21 championships in Kuantan, Pahang.
He justified his status as the top seed when he staved off a spirited fightback from teammate and joint third-fourth seed Chia Jeng Hon before prevailing 21-11, 15-21, 21-14 in 58 minutes.
Justin was overwhelmed with emotion after winning the Under-21 national title for the first time.
“I felt a huge pressure as I was the top seed but I managed to handle it to win my first national title,” said a relieved Justin.
“I was in Hanoi. I didn’t play but I learnt a lot watching world-class players on how they handled the pressure.
“I have also picked up new strategies too.”
Justin hopes the win will put him in good stead as he aims to win international titles in lower-ranked tournaments next month.
He has been entered for the Boon International from June 15-18 in Germany and the Croatia Open from June 20-23.
“The win here has given me the motivation to do well in future.
“I’m looking forward to the upcoming tournaments in Europe. I want to win.”
Justin’s former partner Fazriq Razif was also in element in the doubles event.
Justin and Fazriq used to play doubles together but they have decided to go separate ways last year as the former wanted to focus on singles while the latter wanted to follow his father Datuk Razif Sidek’s path to be a successful doubles player.
Fazriq, who is now playing with Wong Vin Sean, battled for 55 minutes before beating compatriots and second seeds Choi Jian Sheng- Jeremy Goonting 15-21, 21-15, 21-15 in the final.
“I’ve competed in this tournament before but my best is only a runner-up spot in singles in 2019. I’m happy to win it for the first time,” said Fazriq.
“My main goal this year is the World Juniors as I will not be eligible for it next year.
“I’m more motivated after this win.”
Jian Sheng suffered a double disappointment when he had to retire from the mixed doubles with Lai Ting Cen after picking up an injury. The duo retired after trailing 18-21. 21-17, 9-16 against Tan Wei Liang-Ho Lo Ee
In the women’s event, Penang’s Wong Ling Ching was the star of the tournament when she captured both the women’s singles and doubles titles.
FINAL RESULTS
(BAM unless stated)
Men’s singles: Justin Hoh bt Chia Jeng Hon 21-11, 15-21, 21-14.
Men’s doubles: Fazriq Razif-Wong Vin Sean bt Choi Jian Sheng- Jeremy Goonting 15-21, 21-15, 21-15.
Women’s singles: Wong Ling Ching (Pen) bt Chan Wen Tse 21-16, 21-18.
Women’s doubles: Wong Ling Ching-Teoh Lexuan (Pen) bt Ho Shi Yun-Lim Shin (Joh) 21-15, 16-21, 21-17.
Mixed doubles: Tan Wei Liang-Ho Lo Ee (Pen-Sel) bt Choi Jian Sheng-Lai Ting Cen 21-18, 17-21, 16-9 (ret).
