S-t-r-e-t-c-h: Hong Kong’s Jason Gunawan in action against Indonesia’s Chico Aura. — IZZRAFIQ ALIAS/The Star
KUALA LUMPUR: Hong Kong’s rising star Jason Gunawan appreciated coach Wong Choong Hann’s role in the growth of his career after checking into the men’s singles quarter-finals in the Malaysian Masters.
Yesterday, the world No. 83 Jason pulled off an upset after stunning Indonesia’s world No. 30 Chico Aura 21-6, 16-21, 21-10 in the second round at the Axiata Arena in Bukit Jalil.
The victory has significantly boosted Jason’s confidence as it marks his first time reaching the quarter-finals in a Super 500 tournament.
He believes coach Choong Hann has played a huge role in his growth as a shuttler.
Choong Hann, former Badminton Association of Malaysia singles coaching director, left the country to coach Hong Kong in July last year.
“Coach Wong has been very dedicated in coaching since he took over and the overall level of our Hong Kong men’s singles team has improved significantly,” said Jason.
“He formulates training plans tailored to the characteristics of each player and during the matches, his tactical input and encouragement after every point have greatly assisted us.
“Coach Wong has helped us make a lot of progress ... my personal skills have improved, and my confidence too.”
Jason, who will be turning 20 next month, is expecting a tougher job against world No. 19 Lu Guangzu of China next but looking forward to gaining invaluable experience.
“I’m very happy to reach the last eight although I’m surprised that I’ve beaten Chico. I’m satisfied with my performance throughout the match.
“I know that my mission is not over yet and I don’t want to stop here, so I will keep pushing.
“This win (against Chico) has given me a lot of confidence and I’m not afraid to challenge any higher-ranked players.”
