Korean pair hope to be third time lucky at world meet
Latest News 10:21 AM
A PAINFUL memory will be a strong motivation and a reminder
for South Korean doubles ace Lee Yong-dae to get it right in his third
appearance in the world championships.
The 22-year-old injured his elbow in March and was unable to play competitive badminton for almost four months.
“It was a painful time. I could not do what I love most – playing badminton. My hand hurt and I was heartsick,” said Yong-dae.
“I was determined to get better through proper rehabilitation and I did. I am glad to be back again.”
He also commended his 28-year-old partner, Jung Jae-sung, for being patient.
“He was left in a lurch when I was injured. But he did more than just sitting idle. He kept encouraging me and usually, we will end up talking about our strategies to become a better pair. I appreciate him for that,” said Yong-dae.
He is determined to come good with Jae-sung in the outing in Paris this time after the disappointment of runners-up finishes at the last two editions in 2007 (Kuala Lumpur) and 2009 (Hyderabad).
“I made quick recovery from my elbow injury so that I can be in good form for this tournament. I have been twice disappointed and hope not again. Jae-sung and I want to be in the final again and win it for the first time,” said Yong-dae.
The Koreans are in the same quarter of the draw with top seeds Koo Kien Keat-Tan Boon Heong. They have an outstanding record against the Malaysians, winning all the matches over the last two years.
“We have played against Kien Keat-Boon Heong many times and we know what to expect from them. It’s all about confidence,” said Yong-dae.
“We always get through the close matches because they always put too much pressure on themselves. We know that it will not be easy this time but we are ready to give our all.”
The last time the two pairs played against each other was in the semi-finals of the Taiwan Open recently and the Koreans came from behind to win the match.
Yong-dae-Jae-sung went on to win the title – a first since emerging as the Korean Open champions in January. They are certainly strong contenders to nail a first world title.
The 22-year-old injured his elbow in March and was unable to play competitive badminton for almost four months.
“It was a painful time. I could not do what I love most – playing badminton. My hand hurt and I was heartsick,” said Yong-dae.
“I was determined to get better through proper rehabilitation and I did. I am glad to be back again.”
He also commended his 28-year-old partner, Jung Jae-sung, for being patient.
“He was left in a lurch when I was injured. But he did more than just sitting idle. He kept encouraging me and usually, we will end up talking about our strategies to become a better pair. I appreciate him for that,” said Yong-dae.
He is determined to come good with Jae-sung in the outing in Paris this time after the disappointment of runners-up finishes at the last two editions in 2007 (Kuala Lumpur) and 2009 (Hyderabad).
“I made quick recovery from my elbow injury so that I can be in good form for this tournament. I have been twice disappointed and hope not again. Jae-sung and I want to be in the final again and win it for the first time,” said Yong-dae.
The Koreans are in the same quarter of the draw with top seeds Koo Kien Keat-Tan Boon Heong. They have an outstanding record against the Malaysians, winning all the matches over the last two years.
“We have played against Kien Keat-Boon Heong many times and we know what to expect from them. It’s all about confidence,” said Yong-dae.
“We always get through the close matches because they always put too much pressure on themselves. We know that it will not be easy this time but we are ready to give our all.”
The last time the two pairs played against each other was in the semi-finals of the Taiwan Open recently and the Koreans came from behind to win the match.
Yong-dae-Jae-sung went on to win the title – a first since emerging as the Korean Open champions in January. They are certainly strong contenders to nail a first world title.
Posted by Lucas Liau
on 10:21 AM.
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