Malaysia’s Leong Jun Hao in action during semifinals men’s single match at Morodok Badminton Hall in conjunction of 2023 Sea Games at Cambodia. - FAIHAN GHANI/The Star
A HIGH-FLYING Leong Jun Hao’s wings were clipped by Indonesia’s Christian Adinata in the semi-finals in the SEA Games in Cambodia.
National men’s singles shuttler Jun Hao had been in good form in the Games so far but failed to raise his game against Christian and lost out 19-21, 12-21 at the Morodok Techo badminton hall in Phnom Penh yesterday.
World No. 64 Jun Hao had stunned Thailand’s world No. 34 Sitthikom Thammasin and Christian’s teammate Chico Aura (No. 19) in the men’s team event.
The 23-year-old though found world No. 59 Christian a tough nut to crack.
“My strategy didn’t work today (yesterday),” lamented Jun Hao.
“My opponent could read my game and I tried to change tactics but it was too late.
“I’m disappointed with myself but I have to accept that I still have a lot to improve.
“I need to be able to change tactics faster on court for one.”
Jun Hao will next turn his attention to the Malaysian Masters from May 23-28 at the Axiata Arena.
“I hope to be more consistent moving forward. I need to go back and prepare well for the Malaysian Masters.”
Meanwhile, Lee Shun Yang’s run also came to an end in the last four after going down 15-21, 18-21 to Chico.
“Chico was braver with his shots and he made it tough for me,” said Shun Yang.
“He was also more experienced and managed to stay calmer towards the end of the game.
“I’m satisfied with myself for winning the bronze but I need to improve my attacking game to be able to progress further.”
Shun Yang will next play in the Thailand Open from May 30-June 4.
