Who said what in and around the badminton world over the past week?
FROM INDONESIA MASTERS 2023
“Last year I was here with my family and papa watched with happiness and pride. For me, this title is very emotional, very meaningful.”
Daniel Marthin dedicating his men’s doubles success to his late father.
“American badminton is certainly on the rise. A few years ago there were just four players and now we are at around 10. For LA 2028 (Olympic Games), you’ll see more pushing through.”
Vinson Chiu optimistic about the sport’s growth in the USA.
“It’s loud, wow, it’s so loud. Hearing about it and experiencing it on court are two different things. I’ve loved playing here.”
Clara Graversen on making her Istora Senayan debut.
“I know we’ve won a lot here but I didn’t know we are now the most successful. We are so happy, this is such a meaningful place for us.”
Zheng Si Wei on making history at the tournament alongside Huang Ya Qiong.
“I couldn’t sleep last night, maybe two or three hours, just constantly thinking about this opportunity. It almost slipped but I’m so happy it didn’t.”
A relieved Anders Antonsen after defeating Brian Yang in the final.
FROM ELSEWHERE
“I can see Cheuk Yiu has improved a lot especially after (Wong) Choong Hann joined the Hong Kong China team as singles coach. He can bring a lot of experience to the Hong Kong players. So, we cannot underestimate Cheuk Yiu from now on.”
Cai Yun after Lee Cheuk Yiu finished runner-up at India Open.
“Our main aim is to do well at the Thomas Cup, we are the defending champions. We will definitely want to be on the podium.”
Chirag Shetty aims to keep hold of the Men’s World Team Championship title.
“My greatest improvement is self-belief and confidence in my ability. It’s paramount for any professional athlete to have the utmost confidence in what they do and how they perform, especially when the odds are constantly stacked against you.”
Zimbabwe’s Thibani Mathe on how he benefitted from a three-month training stint at Sichuan Training Centre in China.
“I hope it can help others see the impact of sports for people with disabilities and just show that handicaps are normal.”
Faustine Noel yearns for the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games to create a lasting impact in France.