BUKIT JALIL: National women’s doubles shuttler Pearly Tan revealed she had been unwell a week before the Malaysian Open after uploading a photo of herself receiving treatment in hospital on her Instagram story on Friday (Jan 9).
Pearly had been down with fever but was eventually cleared to compete alongside M. Thinaah in the ongoing home tournament. However, the effects were still evident as the pair went down to Indonesian duo Febriana Kusuma–Meilysa Puspitasari in the second round of the Malaysian Open on Thursday (Jan 8).
There were initial fears that Pearly might have contracted dengue fever, but those concerns were later ruled out.
National doubles coaching director Rexy Mainaky, when contacted, admitted that Pearly was not at her best while competing at the Axiata Arena.
“Pearly had complained of feeling unwell five days before the tournament on Tuesday, initially raising concerns that the Kedah-born player might have dengue fever,” said Rexy.
Although it was a relief to find out it was not dengue, Rexy said that Pearly still required further treatment in order to compete in the tournament.
“She had just returned from Hangzhou and complained of feeling unwell. At first, we were worried but tests came back negative for dengue. However, she still felt weak and developed a fever.
“I can say this was one of the factors that affected her performance against the Indonesian pair. You could see in yesterday’s match (Friday) that Pearly-Thinaah had led 4-0 in the second set but then made several unforced errors.
“I am not making excuses, but this is the reality, and the Indonesian pair also played very well," said Rexy.
Rexy’s explanation also clarified the photo Pearly had shared on her social media was taken on Jan 1, not the day after her defeat to the Indonesian pair.
"Thanks to all the fans for coming all the way to support us on our home ground," Pearly wrote in her Instagram post.
"I'm sorry we couldn't give you more days to watch us play, but I'm truly grateful for all the love and support. Love you guys, and I can't wait to see you all again."
