Big payday: Mohd Haikal Nazri (left) and Choong Hon Jian won their first title of the year at the Orleans Masters last month.
PETALING JAYA: Men’s doubles shuttler Mohd Haikal Nazri is happy to have the means to give his relatives in his hometown “ang pow” during Hari Raya from a young age.
Haikal is only 21 but is starting to earn more by winning titles in the Badminton World Federation (BWF) World Tour competitions with Choong Hon Jian.
Haikal and Hon Jian helped themselves to US$16,590 (RM78,600) in prize money after bagging their first title of the year in the Orleans Masters in France last month.
Boosted by his latest earnings, the former now is looking forward to blessing his close relatives with money packets in his hometown in Pasir Mas, Kelantan, during this year’s Raya celebrations.
“I’m going back today for Raya celebrations and I plan to give my close relatives ‘ang pow’,” said Haikal.
“I’m not from a family that is well to do, so I feel very happy to have the means to give them. I’ve been doing this since I was young.
“My relatives were happy to receive the money from me last year and they gave me blessings and wished me more success in my career.”
Haikal is also keen to enjoy a variety of delicious food during Raya.
“I love many types of food and I’m looking forward to enjoying myself during Raya,” said Haikal.
“It’s hard to pick my favourite but I will say roti jala and lemang are among those that are special and a-must-eat for me for Raya.”
Haikal, who has progressed rapidly with Hon Jian after only combining together last August and are now ranked No. 28 in the world, will compete next in the Thailand Open from May 14-19.
Before that, the pair are hoping to be selected for the Thomas Cup Finals in Chengdu from April 27-May 5 for the first time.
“We hope the coaches will include us in the Thomas Cup team,” said Haikal.
“We will be ready to play if called upon.”
