Thomas and Uber Cup teams fired up by Rosmah’s challenges
News 12:32 PM
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PUTRAJAYA: The Thomas and Uber Cup squads enjoyed a good breakfast and warm fellowship at the scenic residence of the Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak in Putrajaya yesterday.
But more than the food, the challenges thrown by Najib’s wife, Datin Seri Rosmah Mansor, who is also the Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM) patron, have whetted the appetite of the players to do well at the Finals in Jakarta.
And Thomas Cup team skipper Wong Choong Hann said that they were all fired up to stand up to Rosmah's challenges.
Rosmah asked the players to keep their words over two things – for the Thomas Cup team to end a 16-year title drought and for both teams to be strong mentally to handle the pressure that comes with playing in the premier world team championships.
“I want to wish you well as you leave for Jakarta for the challenges ahead. The most important thing is too bring back the Thomas Cup ... we have been waiting for so long. Can you promise to deliver that?” she asked to thunderous applause and shouts of “Boleh” from the players.
“Please do not disappoint me like you have disappointed Datuk Nadzmi (Mohd Salleh, the BAM president) previously. Do not just say 'boleh' but make sure you prove it.”
Despite taking a break from their rigorous morning training session, Choong Hann said that it was an honour for the players to be at Rosmah's residence.
“We feel special. We (the players) pledge to do our best to honour the promises that we have given to our patron. I can give an assurance that all of us are hungry to win,” he said.
“So far, our preparation has been smooth. We are more united after the team-building camp (in Port Dickson).”
Posted by Lucas Liau
on 12:32 PM.
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