PETALING JAYA: Rising shuttler Noraqilah Maisarah Ramdan has proven her versatility and exceptional talent on court, but mixed doubles coach Nova Widianto believes her long-term success will depend just as much on developing a strong character as refining her game.
Noraqilah, 19, has been performing well in both the women’s doubles and mixed doubles, but Nova said the coaching team do not want to rush her progress despite her obvious potential.
"I’ve seen Noraqilah play since she was very young, and I already knew back then she was a talented player. In terms of skill, there’s no question about it, she’s a player with exceptional talent," said Nova.
"But what I really want to ensure is that she stays grounded. Sometimes when a player gets a little bit of success and people around start praising them, it may affect them mentally.
"It’s our responsibility as coaches to manage that side of things. Malaysia has plenty of talented players with great ability. The important thing is knowing how to nurture their character."
Noraqilah’s adaptability was on display recently when she and scratch partner Ong Xin Yee clinched the women’s doubles title at the second leg of the Under-21 National Championship in Kuantan.
Noraqilah and her usual partner, Low Zi Yu, had also reached the Australian Open quarter-finals, bumping their ranking to a career-high world No. 70.
In the mixed doubles, Noraqilah and partner Loo Bing Kun had reached the second round in Sydney. They are currently ranked world No. 115.
However, while Nova is happy with the balance of Noraqilah competing in multiple disciplines, he believes she would eventually have to narrow her selection if she wants to reach the highest level.
"If she wants to become a top player, it won’t be possible to keep playing both disciplines forever. She will eventually have to choose one.
"But while she’s young, I think it’s fine for her to compete in both. However, if the goal is the Olympics, I believe she should focus on one event."
