SQUASH legend Nicol David knows how hard it is to win at the Asian Games.
And she has called the current batch led by S. Sivasangari to persevere through the high expectations and strong opponents to emerge successful in the team and individual events at the Asian Games in Hangzhou.
The women’s team have qualified for the semi-finals and will take on South Korea today while the men face India in the last four too.
“I would just like to wish the Malaysian squash team all the very best there in Hangzhou,” said Nicol.
“To everyone supporting, let’s cheer them on by giving positive vibes and being encouraging throughout as they go through tough battles.
“Our athletes are determined to do their best and they need our full support.”
Nicol received overwhelming support from home fans that saw her ending an illustrious 20-year career in 2019.
In fact, the last Asian Games was her final outing, where she delivered a gold medal at the 2018 Jakarta Asian Games edition.
Not many knew but Nicol struggled in her quest to win her final and fifth individual Games gold.
Expectations had been high for Nicol to deliver the gold, but at that time, she was grappling with burnout and experiencing the lowest point in her career.
Fortunately, a positive change occurred when she made a crucial decision to take a two-month break from squash. The choice proved to be the right one, as she returned to training with renewed energy and motivation.
Nicol was able to bring out her A-game to reach the final and fought tooth and nail to defeat compatriot S. Sivasangari to take the gold medal.
“Winning my last Asian Games gold medal in Jakarta 2018 was a very special one... and better yet, on my birthday!” said Nicol.
This time around, Nicol will be the No. 1 supporter of the team as she prays for Sivasangari to retain the gold that she won and for others to step up.
