PETALING JAYA: Carmen Ting-Ong Xin Yee may well be Malaysia’s next big hope in women’s doubles, but the 19-year-olds must stay patient as they work their way towards the world elite.
The pair have risen to No. 25 in the world and are shaping up as a potential back-up to Pearly Tan-M. Thinaah, especially with uncertainty still surrounding Teoh Mei Xing-Go Pei Kee.
Women’s doubles head coach Rosman Razak said he was encouraged by their progress, pointing out that not every player promoted from the junior ranks could adapt quickly at senior level.
“From the junior level, they (Carmen-Xing Yee) are now competing against stronger and more experienced players. They have improved and they train consistently to go further,” said Rosman.
“There is clear progress, especially in the way they handle pressure and deal with high-level matches.
“They are learning a lot and they are young. There is still so much they need to learn. They are our future.
“Give them space. They are now competing at a high level, but this is part of the process.
“They must accept that the results will go up and down.
“I am confident the process will be good for them, even during difficult periods,” said Rosman.
Rosman added that the success enjoyed by Pearly-Thinaah has made it easier for him to guide Carmen-Xin Yee, as the formula for success has already proven effective.
He also praised Pearly-Thinaah for setting a positive example in training, regularly sharing their experience and knowledge with their younger teammates.
“If you look at last year, Carmen-Xing Yee’s progress was very good. They followed Pearly-Thinaah to several major tournaments and had many sparring sessions with them. They observed their character and what it takes to train as a top player. It is very different.
“When we spoke to them at the start of the year and compare it to now, even the way they speak has changed.
“Their mentality has changed. They now understand what the demands are like.
“Those demands are logical and unavoidable. At the top level, the pressure is higher and the expectations are greater,” he said.
Carmen-Xin Yee came close to capturing their first senior title last December but fell short on both occasions, finishing runners-up at the Guwahati Masters and Odisha Masters within a span of two weeks.
Carmen-Xin Yee will next make their debut in the All-England from March 3-8 in Birmingham.
