PETALING JAYA: Independent men’s singles coach Nova Armada hopes married life will give Aidil Sholeh Ali Sadikin a fresh source of motivation after a slow start to the season.
The 26-year-old tied the knot with Shafiqa Irdina Roslee on Saturday.
The wedding was attended by several national shuttlers, including men’s singles players Leong Jun Hao, Eogene Ewe, Ng Tze Yong and Justin Hoh, as well as men’s doubles star Aaron Chia.
Nova said he was delighted for Aidil and had no hesitation in granting him a few days’ leave to celebrate the occasion.
He hopes the break and a new chapter in Aidil’s life will help the shuttler regain his confidence after struggling for form this year.
“To be honest, before May, especially before the Thomas Cup, it was difficult for me to say he was playing well,” said Nova.
“Hopefully, getting married will give him renewed motivation.
“Aidil asked for my permission to take leave for his wedding. In fact, he still came for training on Friday, a day before his wedding ceremony,” said Nova.
Aidil was once ranked as high as world No. 39 in October last year but has slipped to No. 83 after struggling for consistency this season.
He is expected to return to competition at the Taiwan Open from July 28-Aug 2, where he will begin in the qualifying rounds.
