KUALA LUMPUR: Women’s singles player Wong Ling Ching (pic)has made a U-turn from quitting the sport and her return has earned her a quick shot to redeem herself.
The 22-year-old Ling Ching has been named for the Asia Mixed Team Championships from Feb 11-16 in Qingdao, China.
Ling Ching left in November last year, citing her wish to study but later changed her mind.
National coaching director Rexy Mainaky said they had decided to give the Miri-born Ling Ching, the Malaysia Games (Sukma) girls’ singles champion, a second chance.
Rexy said he had initially discouraged Ling Ching from leaving the Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM) but she was determined to pursue her studies.
“I only found out through Michelle Chai (BAM’s administrative director) that she was back. Perhaps Ling Ching felt uncomfortable or was afraid to speak to me about returning to BAM,” said Rexy.
“Previously, she had sought my opinion, and I told her that leaving BAM wouldn’t be fair to herself. She had already won championships and participated in several tournaments, yet suddenly, she wanted to leave.
“For me, there is no issue, and BAM have no problems with players making decisions for their future. If she feels she can no longer continue, it’s her choice. But personally, I felt she wasn’t being fair to herself.
“Even after I advised her, she went straight to Michelle to submit her resignation letter. And when she decided to return, she contacted Michelle again,” said Rexy.
Rexy also expressed his disappointment that some players initially viewed BAM as a “prison,” only to realise their value once they left, leading them to seek a return.
Ling Ching will join K. Letshanaa in the singles.
“I discussed her inclusion with K. Yogendran and Kenneth (Jonassen), as we felt it was important to give them a chance,” he said.
“Pro (Goh) Jin Wei is busy with tournaments in Europe and this is an opportunity for these players to step up.”
