KUALA LUMPUR: Mixed doubles shuttler Tan Kian Meng has already mapped out his post-retirement plans, but they have nothing to do with badminton.
Instead, he has chosen to venture into tiktok online business to sustain himself after stepping away from the sport.
Kian Meng, who partners Lai Pei Jing, had announced that the All-England in Birmingham next week would be his final tournament, marking the end of his 14-year career.
Unlike some of his peers who have opened academies or taken up coaching roles, Kian Meng believes the market is too saturated, with an abundance of badminton academies and trainers offering coaching services.
He is also reluctant to leave his family behind for a coaching stint abroad.
As a result, he has turned to social media, leveraging his large following to sell products online as an alternative career path.
“I do offer private coaching sessions, but opening an academy is not ideal for me as the market is too competitive. These days, anyone can become a coach.
“I have to prioritise myself first and find a way to earn a living. If my online business becomes stable, I might consider helping players who need support,” said Kian Meng, who is already actively selling products on TikTok.
Since making their All-England debut in 2017, Kian Meng-Pei Jing have never progressed beyond the quarter-finals.
While he has set no lofty targets for his final appearance, he hopes to go as far as possible to create lasting memories.
This time, they will face Taiwan’s Chen Cheng-kuan-Hsu Yin-hui in the first round.
“I just want to enjoy my last tournament, so I’m not overthinking it. On paper, we seem to have a chance, but ultimately, it depends on our performance on the day.
“Of course, there’s a bit of sadness, but at the same time, I’m excited to leave badminton behind and try something new. I think everyone goes through this phase, and now it’s my turn to face it,” he added.
