Jun Hao's giant-killing act gives him Asian Games lift

Aichi: Kenneth Jonassen, Malaysia's national singles coach, is impressed by Jun Hao's confidence following his remarkable victory over world number one Jonatan Christie ahead of the Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games badminton event. Jun Hao, ranked 33rd globally, fought back from a game deficit to defeat the 2024 All England champion 20-22, 21-12, 21-17, granting Malaysia's first point in the men's team competition two days prior.

However, Malaysia fell short in the quarter-final tie, losing 3-2. The individual event commences tomorrow. Jonassen believes the win will bolster Jun Hao's mental fortitude but emphasized the importance of maintaining focus, tackling each match one at a time. "Step by step is the best way forward," Jonassen advised, adding that the team will analyze the draw and commence preparations accordingly.

Jonassen praised Jun Hao's fighting spirit in the match, highlighting his willingness to "fight all out in every match," as he perceives mentality as crucial. Despite the win, Jonassen noted there is room for improvement within the national singles squad, as several opportunities were missed during the team event. The last time Malaysia secured a medal in the men's singles at the Asian Games was in 2014, when Lee Chong Wei claimed the bronze.

Since then, Malaysia has not won a men's singles gold at the Asian Games, with the closest attempt coming in 2010, when Chong Wei lost to Lin Dan in the final.