PETALING JAYA: Former shuttler Soong Fie Choo believes Malaysia’s rising talent Low Zi Yu (pic) should focus solely on women’s doubles to fully unlock her potential.
Zi Yu, 15, is preparing to join full-time training with the national squad at the Academy Badminton Malaysia (ABM) in Bukit Kiara.
Former women’s doubles ace Fie Choo, who coached Zi Yu while she was with Johor at the state level, feels the teenager’s future shines brightest in women’s doubles.
“I think BAM is the best platform for Zi Yu to develop her talent, and we will always support her,” said Fie Choo.
Zi Yu – a two-time World Junior Championships silver medallist – has shown her versatility, competing not only in girls’ doubles but also in mixed doubles and singles.
It is common for junior players in the national camp to juggle two events before specialising at the senior level.
“She can still compete in singles at national tournaments, but for international duties with BAM, it would be better for her to focus on doubles, specifically women’s doubles. I see her potential more clearly in doubles, but ultimately, it’s up to the coaching staff at BAM to decide what is best for her.”
Fie Choo also feels that Zi Yu is now ready to compete at the senior level and should no longer be limited to junior tournaments.
Last year, Zi Yu experienced a Super 300 event at the Macau Open, partnering Dania Sofea Zaidi, but their run ended in the first round. According to Fie Choo, early defeats are normal for Zi Yu and her partner when transitioning to senior competitions due to lack of experience. At the same time, they should use every result as a lesson to improve for future tournaments.
This year, Zi Yu’s first tournament will be the Estonian International, starting on Jan 8, where she will partner Noraqilah Maisarah Ramdan.
“I think she needs to stay consistent with what she is showing now and start challenging players ranked in the top 100 or even top 50 in the world.
“She can no longer see junior players as her main competition. She has to consistently play against higher-ranked players because the more she faces them, the faster she will improve.
“At this age, it’s okay to lose. The experience is invaluable, and that’s where she will learn,” added Fie Choo.
