SINGAPORE – Some years in the past, nationwide shuttler Grace Chua sat subsequent to teammate Loh Kean Yew on a airplane and caught a glimpse of his cell phone’s wallpaper.
It was a photograph of his sporting objectives in Mandarin, one in every of which was to win an Olympic medal.
On the time, whereas she recognised his dedication, she additionally thought it relatively formidable. However his latest run, together with changing into world champion final evening, has been nothing however inspiring.
Loh upset Indian world No. 14 Srikanth Kidambi 21-15, 22-20 in Huelva, Spain to win the lads’s singles ultimate on the World Championships.
Chua, 25, who has educated with Loh since they have been youngsters, mentioned: “This exhibits his true dedication and dedication as an athlete… I hope his latest achievements have impressed aspiring shuttlers to be courageous and pursue their sporting desires.”
Singapore Badminton Affiliation president Lawrence Leow mentioned Loh’s feat has introduced a lot pleasure to the nation.
He added: “Kean Yew’s athletic expertise is doubtless. His greatest years are forward of him. Nonetheless, what’s extra invaluable is his capability to remain centered, his resilience when the chances are stacked towards him, his flexibility to improvise mid-game, and his consistency and combating spirit all through the video games.
“He has actually matured as an athlete. And he has confirmed to be an inspirational determine not simply to Singapore badminton however to different sports activities as nicely.”
Certainly.
Former Singapore Slingers basketballer Ng Han Bin has been watching Loh’s matches in latest tournaments, together with staying up previous 4am for the semi-final match.
Ng, 32, mentioned: “It is thrilling to see a fellow Singaporean breaking boundaries by means of his years of laborious work and dedication.
“It was so thrilling to the purpose that I must calm myself down earlier than having the ability to go to sleep.