KUALA LUMPUR – National squash ace Ng Eain Yow knows he will have a target on his back when he competes in next month’s Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games 2026 because, as defending champion, he will become the “hunted”.
The 2022 gold medalist is also bracing himself for stiff resistance from a new wave of younger and “hungry” contenders from across the region.
“Last time, I was the one hunting for the title; now I have to defend it. In that sense, it is a bit different, but I’m ready for it. I’m working closely with my team and psychologist to cover all the bases… I’m ready,” he told reporters after Asiad chef de mission Datuk Mohd Sumali Reduan and his deputy, Syaidatul Afifah Badrul Hamidi, visited the squash players at the Jalan Duta Squash Centre here today.
The 28-year-old Eain Yow, who is gearing up for his third appearance at the Games, believes his maturity and experience will be vital in navigating the expectations of being the tournament favourite.
“So far, I’m injury-free. Training has also been good, and I have kept my momentum going since May in terms of tournament and training. I think it’s all good. For now, it’s just about keeping pace during training and making sure I don’t get injured.
“I’m 28 already, so I have to make sure I keep my body fit and fresh. That’s the main target going into the Asian Games,” he said.
Determined to defend his Asiad title, the world number 18 is confident that producing his best squash will naturally put him in a strong position to secure another gold medal for Malaysia.
Asked if the added incentive of an Olympic ticket would weigh heavily on his mind, Eain Yow insisted that the prestige of the Asian Games itself remains his primary motivation.
“To be honest, it makes no difference if there’s an Olympic qualification spot or not, because winning the Asian Games is already such a big thing. If I feel any extra pressure, I’ll make sure to speak with my psychologist and coach to stay mentally ready,” he said.
To fine-tune his mental game, Eain Yow revealed that he is working with a psychologist from the National Sports Institute (NSI) while praising the overall support from the institute and the National Sports Council (NSC).
He noted that with the extensive support provided by the sports science and management teams, it is now up to athletes to step up to the plate and do their best. – August 6, 2026