PETALING JAYA: National singles shuttler Justin Hoh has lots to catch up on after Malaysia's campaign in the Thomas Cup came to an end in the quarter-finals on Friday (May 1).
The 22-year-old was tasked with keeping Malaysia’s hopes alive after the defeats of Leong Jun Hao and national men’s doubles pair Aaron Chia–Soh Wooi Yik, but he went down 14-21, 13-21 to world No. 7 Li Shifeng in 44 minutes at the Forum Horsens, in Denmark.
With that loss, Malaysia suffered a 0-3 defeat to 11-time champions China, extending their long wait for a Thomas Cup title, which they last won on home soil in Kuala Lumpur in 1992.
Reflecting on his performance, Justin admitted he is still adjusting to the demands of playing at the highest level against top-ranked opponents.
"I think overall, I still don't have enough experience in handling situations when I am leading or when my opponent is leading," said the world No. 44 Justin.
"I enjoyed playing today and I did not put too much pressure on myself.
"My opponent played very well, so there is nothing much to say.
"I know I lost... I still have a long way to go before becoming a top 10 player, so I will continue to try my best to keep learning and improving."
Despite the defeat, Justin viewed the outing as an important learning platform, especially as he was entrusted with the first singles role against Canada in their Group B opening tie and second singles role in the remaining matches.
"The Thomas Cup has been a valuable experience for me," said Justin.
"It was my first time playing as the first and second singles, and I faced higher-ranked opponents in every match.
"It has been a good learning experience for me."
Jun Hao, who had faced heavy criticism, tried to step up with a spirited performance against world No. 1 Shi Yuqi.
He managed to claim a game but could not sustain the momentum, eventually losing 10-21, 21-16, 9-21 in 67 minutes.
In the doubles, Aaron-Wooi Yik were under pressure to keep Malaysia in the tie, but they were outclassed by world No. 5 pair Liang Weikeng and Wang Chang, going down 22-24, 14-21 in 35 minutes.
