Leong Jun Hao Finds Winning Form at Malaysian Open, Credits Coaching Influence
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia – After a challenging period marked by five consecutive first-round exits on the World Tour, Malaysian shuttler Leong Jun Hao has rediscovered his winning touch at the prestigious Malaysian Open.His impressive 21-17, 21-17 victory over China’s Wang Zhengxing, ranked world No. 29, in a brisk 48-minute encounter at the Axiata Arena, signals a notable turnaround for the world no. 28.
The resurgence is being closely linked to the presence of Datuk Tey Seu Bock in the coaching corner. Seu Bock, widely anticipated to resume his role as the senior men’s singles coach for the Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM), was observed guiding Jun Hao alongside K. Yogendran. This marks a welcome return to a familiar coaching dynamic for the 26-year-old, whose last World Tour victory dates back to the China Masters in September.
A visibly relieved and motivated Jun Hao emphasized the impact of Seu Bock’s guidance. “He used to guide me before,and this is the first time he’s coaching me again in a match,” Jun Hao shared.”It definitely feels different. He has guided senior men’s singles players for so many years and understands our playing styles intimately. This familiarity made me feel more agreeable on the court.”
Seu Bock’s reassignment from the senior men’s singles to a junior coaching role at the close of 2024 coincided with a dip in Jun Hao’s performance. Last year, under the tutelage of singles coaching director Kenneth Jonassen, who joined BAM approximately a year ago, Jun Hao struggled to find consistent form.
Securing a victory in the opening round of his home tournament has provided a much-needed confidence boost for the 2017 Asian Junior champion. “My form wasn’t great towards the end of last year, so starting this year with a win has really given me some confidence,” Jun Hao stated. “It was a tough match, and I was trailing in the second game, but I managed to fight back and secure the win.I’m particularly happy because Chinese players are formidable opponents, and winning in straight games is very satisfying.”
This win propels Jun Hao into the second round of the Malaysian Open, a step up from his debut last year where he was eliminated in the first round. His next challenge will be a formidable one as he faces Indonesia’s world No. 4, Jonatan Christie.
Looking ahead, Jun Hao expressed his determination to maintain his momentum. “I hope to play with confidence and maintain consistency in the next round,” he added, underscoring his ambition to continue his impressive run at the tournament.
