PETALING JAYA: Danish men’s singles shuttler Anders Antonsen (pic) has appointed his older brother Kasper Antonsen as his new head coach.
The 30-year-old Kasper, who is a former player, is set to replace Joachim Persson and will start coaching Anders next month.
Anders made the announcement via social media and said that he was delighted to have his brother alongside him in an official capacity.
“I really had no doubt who I wanted to bring onboard as my new coach. Luckily he wanted it as well,” said Anders.
“Throughout my life he’s been my most loyal supporter and someone I always can count on.
“Any kind of help or support, he has been there always and never asked for anything in return. I’m sure he is the exact person I need right now.
“I look forward to travel the world with you and create great memories. How crazy it would be winning a major title alongside my brother! That fires me up!
“Starting from October – Kasper Antonsen. Let’s make mum and dad proud.”
Anders, who is currently ranked No. 6 in the world, parted ways with Persson towards the end of August after he caught the latter placing bets on a match.
As a coach of a player competing under the Badminton World Federation (BWF), this is a violation and Anders was forced to terminate Persson’s contract immediately.
Anders, who was shocked by the incident, is hoping to put everything behind him and start afresh with Kasper.
As a player, Kasper captured gold in the 2013 European Junior Championships with Oliver Babic in the men’s doubles and won bronze with Julie Finne-Ipsen in the mixed doubles.
Anders will next compete in the China Open from Sept 17-22 Changzhou.
