Hao Sheng satisfied with KL double quarter-final run despite injury

Kuala Lumpur witnessed Koay Hao Sheng's impressive journey to the men's singles and doubles quarter-finals during the opening week of the M15 Kuala Lumpur ITF World Tennis Tour. However, a persistent shoulder injury has raised concerns about his ability to compete in the upcoming second tournament. The national team captain lost the singles quarter-final to Azuma Visaya 6-2, 6-1, appearing to experience difficulties on his serve.

Nonetheless, Hao Sheng had earlier triumphed over Sasikumar Mukund 6-3, 6-0 and David Eichenseher 6-2, 6-4.

Hao Sheng is yet to determine if he will participate in the second tournament, which commences next Tuesday. He revealed that while the shoulder injury does not impede his groundstrokes, it causes discomfort when serving. He acknowledged that the injury, an overuse issue, necessitates better management through physiotherapy and strengthening. To make a decision on his participation, he intends to rest for a few days.

In doubles, Hao Sheng and partner Shaheed Alam faced a tough loss to Rifqi Fitriadi and Daniil Saksian 7-6 (3), 4-6, 10-5. While they had previously defeated Naufal Kamaruzzaman and Mikaeel Baig 6-3, 6-2 in the first round, Hao Sheng expressed disappointment over some crucial points where they were unlucky. Despite the setback, he remained satisfied with reaching the quarter-finals in both singles and doubles but acknowledged the potential for improvement.

He expressed hope to continue honing his skills. Naufal and emerging talent Aqil Adibi Rahiman also competed in the men's singles and doubles main draw, but both were eliminated in the first round.