Former national badminton coach Datuk Rashid Sidek has urged Leong Jun Hao, the runner-up at the Kumamoto Open, to set clear goals to realize his full potential as a world-class player.
This comes after the 25-year-old’s loss to China’s Li Shi Feng in the final of the Kumamoto Open on Sunday, November 17. Despite the defeat, Jun Hao reached his first Super 500 final at this tournament.
Throughout the Kumamoto Open, Leong faced a series of top-ranked opponents, including world No. 17 Lakshya Sen, No. 11 Koki Watanabe, No. 4 Kodai Naraoka, and No. 6 Jonatan Cristie.
Leong was once dubbed “Malaysia’s next big thing” after winning the 2017 Asian Junior title, defeating Paris Olympics silver medalist Kunlavut Vitidsarn. However, his progress over the last seven years has been slower than expected.
Rashid believes Leong can still make up for lost time by “converting opportunities into titles.” He praised Leong’s potential, which has been evident since his junior days, explaining why the Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM) has continued to support him.
“Jun Hao’s potential was never in doubt, which is why BAM has stood by him,” Rashid said. “He must set specific goals to become a world-class player. He trained alongside Zii Jia and Ng Tze Yong for many years, but they have moved up the ranks faster.”
Rashid added that Leong seems to be reflecting on his own performance, noting that self-criticism and hard work are key for reaching the next level. “Once a player becomes self-critical and works hard, it’s easier for coaches to push them further,” he said.
Rashid also highlighted that while a coach’s guidance contributes to 20% of a player’s success, the rest depends on the player’s own effort and determination.
Leong, he said, must put in the necessary work if he wishes to close the gap with top players. However, he cautioned against comparing Leong directly with Lee Zii Jia, Malaysia’s world No. 7 and an Olympic bronze medalist.
“Zii Jia has multiple World Tour titles and an Olympic medal,” Rashid explained. “Even if he struggles, he can bounce back and win. Jun Hao cannot afford to accept early-round losses. Doing so will create doubts.”
Rashid stressed that Leong must aim high, both mentally and physically, to make progress in future tournaments.
“It is never too late for Jun Hao to make an impact if he remains focused and goal-oriented,” Rashid concluded.
Leong’s next challenge will be against World No. 33 Takuma Obayashi from Japan at the China Masters on Tuesday, November 19.
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