PETALING JAYA: More than anyone, national shuttler Leong Jun Hao is eager to hit top form at the right time of the Thomas Cup Finals.
But the 26-year-old Jun Hao knows it will not be easy and acknowledged the pressure of leading the men’s singles charge in the world team event in Horsens, Denmark from April 24-May 3.
The stakes are high, especially with a potential Group B clash against Japan’s world No. 10 Kodai Naraoka, with England and Finland also in the group.
Jun Hao holds a strong head-to-head record against Naraoka, having won four of their five meetings, but his recent results have been less convincing.
He exited in the opening round of the German Open before falling in the second round at the All-England.
“I know I can improve and I will continue to work with the coaches to find ways to do that,” said Jun Hao.
“I take it as a challenge and use it as motivation to do better.
“It will be tough against other countries’ top players, but I have to give my best.
“There will be pressure, but we aim to do well in the group stage, and I hope to deliver points for Malaysia.”
Justin Hoh, Aidil Sholeh Ali Sadikin and Lee Zii Jia are also expected to be in the singles line-up.
Jun Hao will get a chance to fine-tune his form at the Asian Championships in Ningbo, China, from April 7-12.
