Ex-shuttlers advise world champions to keep feet firmly on the ground

WELL done, boys. Now let’s go for more!

This is the message sent by former shuttlers Datuk James Selvaraj (pic), Datuk Razif Sidek and Tan Boon Heong to Aaron Chia-Soh Wooi Yik after their historic win.

James was impressed with Aaron-Wooi Yik’s performance not just in the final but also in the semi-finals when they overcame India’s Satwiksairaj Rankireddy-Chirag Shetty 20-22, 21-18, 21-16.

“They performed really well in the semis and final. They were really focused and used different strategies to beat different opponents.

“Before this, they were too defensive and just kept lifting the shuttle. But in Tokyo, there was more variety in their shots and they created more opportunities to attack.

“This is what the game is all about. You cannot afford to use the same tactics in every match.

Doubles coaching director Rexy Mainaky had done a really good job,” said James.

The former great now wants Aaron-Wooi Yik to stay grounded and keep working hard.

“They must not let this victory go to their heads. They must stay focused and keep training hard. They are still young and have many years left in them. From now on, every other pair will be out to beat them.

“Once you become a champion, others will want to dethrone you. So, they must be aware of this and keep progressing. They have to chase after more titles,” added James.

Meanwhile, Razif hoped that the duo’s victory will spur others to also chase for world and Olympic titles.

“Aaron-Wooi Yik have given the whole of Malaysia the best gift for Merdeka. We are all so proud of them.

“Hopefully, this is the beginning of good things to come for badminton in the country. Aaron-Wooi Yik have proven that winning the world title is not impossible anymore.”

“Now, the other players should aim to become world and Olympic champions,” said Razif.

Boon Heong also echoed Razif’s statement, saying: “This is a huge breakthrough win for them. Congratulations to them and also to national doubles coaching director Rexy Mainaky and coach Tan Bin Shen. Finally, we have won the world title.

“Hopefully, Aaron-Wooi Yik or the others can achieve another breakthrough by capturing our first Olympic gold.

“After this, Aaron-Wooi Yik should definitely fight for more titles,” said Boon Heong.