Syabil and Nurul seek home high after glory in the Philippines

Double strike: Syabil (right) and Nurul posing with their trophies after their triumphant run.

PETALING JAYA: Winning his first youth international title at the Philippines Open has boosted Syabil Azam Syamsul Azam’s confidence ahead of the Malaysian Open.

The 19-year-old Syabil defeated compatriot Mohd Danial Abu Samah 199-171 in the first match of the boys’ stepladder finals on Friday before defeating top seed Marc Custodio of the Philippines 221-181 in the final at the Coronado Lanes, in Mandaluyong City, Philippines.

“It feels great to win my first international title,” said Syabil.

“The title will motivate me to train harder and strive for greater success.

“Being able to compete head-on with my teammates and other international players while maintaining my focus and performance under pressure has boosted my confidence to do even better in exploring my potential for future championships.

“I am aiming for a podium finish in the Malaysian Open, but I need to adapt to the lane condition faster.

The qualifying for the home tournament starts tomorrow at Sunway Megalanes.

Nurul Anis Nabila Mohd Nizam also made it a double joy when she was crowned as the girl’s champions after outplaying teammate Nur Hazirah Ramli 194-168 in the final.

Coach Alex Liew was pleased with his charges’ performance.

“I’m very happy for both of them (Syabil and Nurul), who won their first international titles,” said Alex.

“And of course, Danial and Hazirah did amazingly well too.

“Danial, who finished second runners-up, demonstrated a strong fighting spirit and a positive attitude while representing Malaysia for the first time.”