PETALING JAYA: Six tournaments in six consecutive weeks would be enough to take a toll on most players, but mixed doubles pair Hoo Pang Ron-Lai Pei Jing have no intention of slowing down just yet.
The world No. 15 pair will continue their impressive run at the Japan Masters in Kumamoto today, marking their sixth straight tournament since the Arctic Open in Finland early last month.
Independent doubles head coach Ameer Amri Zainuddin admitted that they had initially considered giving the pair a break following their impressive performances in Europe last month.
However, Pang Ron-Pei Jing were eager to keep their momentum going, especially after climbing nine places in the world rankings to No. 15.
The pair have enjoyed a remarkable run over the past month, reaching the semi-finals of the Denmark Open before finishing runners-up at the French Open the following week.
They maintained their consistency by reaching the semi-finals of the Hylo Open in Germany before making the quarter-finals of the Korea Open in Yeosu last week.
“Initially, we did not expect them to reach this level so quickly. We had discussed whether they should slow down a little after achieving some good results in several tournaments.
“But after further discussions, we decided to carry on. At the same time, we need to manage their training and physical condition carefully.
“We have been working closely with the fitness coach and physiotherapist to ensure they remain in good shape.
“So far, I can see that they are very positive and hungry for more success in the upcoming tournaments. Perhaps they feel they are on a good run and want to keep it going,” said Ameer.
At the Japan Masters, Pang Ron-Pei Jing will face either of the two Canadian pairs, Lap Kan Kern Pong-Catherine Choi or Jonathan Lai-Crystal Lai, who will meet in the qualifying round.
Another strong showing in Kumamoto could also strengthen their hopes of qualifying for the season-ending World Tour Finals in Hangzhou next month.
Pang Ron-Pei Jing are currently 14th in the World Tour rankings, with only the top eight pairs earning a place in the prestigious season finale.
