KUALA LUMPUR – Malaysia’s rising men’s singles shuttler Justin Hoh will get his long-awaited home debut at the Axiata Arena when the Malaysia Masters kicks off tomorrow, thanks to a last-minute withdrawal by world number three Anders Antonsen.
The Danish star pulled out of the Super 500 tournament after finishing runner-up at the Thailand Open on Sunday, clearing the way for Justin to be promoted into the main draw.
The 21-year-old will now face a tough opening test against Japan’s world number eight Kodai Naraoka in the first round.
Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM) singles coaching director Kenneth Jonassen believes the match will be a valuable learning experience for Justin, who is still finding his rhythm on the elite circuit after an injury-plagued 2023.
“Justin will play Kodai, which is a real test of almost all aspects of his game. However, it’s also his first Malaysia Masters and his first match at home in the Axiata Arena,” Jonassen told Scoop after the team managers meeting.
“I’d like to see him enjoy this experience and opportunity.”
Jonassen acknowledged that Justin’s progress may seem slow to some observers, but reminded critics that the demands of men’s singles badminton leave little room for error.
“It’s difficult to answer, as I think most people I come across are impatient. But men’s singles is a very tough game — if you’re just five per cent off, you become vulnerable,” he said.
This year’s Malaysia Masters will see a notably thinner field in the men’s singles draw, with the absence of two-time Olympic champion Viktor Axelsen of Denmark, Antonsen, world number one Shi Yu Qi of China, Malaysia’s Lee Zii Jia, and top Indonesians Jonatan Christie and Anthony Sinisuka Ginting.
Their absence opens the door for local hopefuls like national number one Leong Jun Hao and returning star Ng Tze Yong to step up.
Jun Hao will open his campaign against Ireland’s Nhat Nguyen, while Tze Yong faces Hong Kong’s Angus Ng Ka Long in what will be only his third tournament since returning from a long injury layoff.
Asked what he expects from the Malaysian shuttlers this week, Jonassen was cautious but optimistic.
“Each player has to take their opportunity. But most importantly, at home, you need to enjoy the moment and the atmosphere. Don’t get caught up in emotions or over-evaluate — stay focused throughout your match,” he said.
On the overall performance of the national men’s singles department, Jonassen kept his eyes on the bigger picture.
“It’s not for me to judge. I’m working on a long-term plan and building the foundation. Do I want more? Of course. But I have faith.” — May 19, 2025