KUALA LUMPUR – Independent women’s singles shuttler Goh Jin Wei’s journey at the Malaysia Open came to an end today as she faced defeat in the second round.
Yesterday, she booked her ticket to the second round by defeating world number 30 Sung Shuo-yun of Chinese Taipei, 21-18, 21-11.
Today, however, Jin Wei battled hard against world number seven Gregoria Mariska Tunjung but ultimately was sent packing 21-15, 24-22 in a closely contested match that lasted 39 minutes.
“I did my very best, and I didn’t think I could match her today because there is still a gap between us.
“I’m not satisfied with my performance, as I made a lot of unforced errors, that is something I can work on.
“Top players like Gregoria can handle the situation during crucial points, and that is what she did well, especially in the second set,“ said Jin Wei, who will turn 24 at the end of the month.
Jin Wei’s unwavering passion for competition was on full display in the second set, when she was trailing 15-11 but battled hard to lead 20-19 before eventually losing the set and match.
“I changed my gameplay, but she was quick to read it. I was more aggressive in the second set; that is the key to my performance.
“But the other side was against the wind, so I could not employ the same tactic,” said Jin Wei.
Earlier, independent mixed doubles pair Goh Soon Huat and Shevon Lai also exited the home tournament after losing to world number six pair Dechapol Puavaranukroh-Sapsiree Taerattanachai from Thailand 21-15, 21-12 in 39 minutes. – January 11, 2024