PETALING JAYA: It could be a path filled with familiar faces for national squash player Sanjay Jeeva as he goes out to impress at the World Championship Qualifiers in Hong Kong starting tomorrow.
The world No. 63 and his seeded teammates C. Ameeshenraj (fourth), Duncan Lee (fifth), and Joachim Chuah (eighth) are aiming to win as that will assure them a spot at the world meet in Giza, Egypt, from May 8-16.
Sanjay hopes to make a second world appearance after his debut in Chicago ended in the first round.
The 26-year-old welcomed the healthy rivalry among Malaysians.
“It’s not always easy because many of us, like me, are based and training abroad,” said Birmingham-based Sanjay.
“But when we come together, we bond, get close and even room together. It’s a unique experience - we’re friends until competition day, then we become rivals.”
Sanjay will play against South Korea’s Ryu Jeong-min first, and could meet compatriot Duncan in the second round.
If all falls into place, Sanjay may meet Joachim or Syafiq Kamal in the semi-finals.
Sanjay had a career high of No. 58 in March last year, and hopes to break into the top 50 this year.
“I’ve been wanting to be in the top 50, but it hasn’t happened yet.
“I got close but I’m still working towards that.
“There are more players competing on the tour now to improve their rankings.
“Sometimes, it’s about picking the right tournaments to get the best gain.”
