Who said what in and around the badminton world over the past week?
“Our struggles extend beyond the competition with our opponents; we also contend with the weight of expectations and the demands of the game. Each time we step onto the court, our opponents bring their A-game, leaving no stone unturned.”
Zheng Si Wei explains the immense effort required for him and Huang Ya Qiong to win every match.
“If I’m in my zone, I don’t talk to anyone. If I’m at tournament or practice, I don’t pick it up. It will be completely off.”
Satwiksairaj Rankireddy keeps away from his mobile when it’s time for business.
“In 2023, I took part in 20 international tournaments where I sharpened my skills and collected points to lift my world ranking. I’m still working hard every day for good performances this year. Hopefully it will help me have enough points for the Olympics.”
Young Vietnamese men’s singles player Nguyen Hai Dang eyeing a spot at Paris 2024.
“Badminton has helped me grow as a person. It pushed me to work hard and not give up on everything I do. I developed a strong and healthy mindset.”
Read about the sport’s influence on Northern Marianas Badminton Association Youth Leader Paulo Jerome Niniano Quidato.
“We’ve been coming to watch from we were kids so to win it twice now is really satisfying.”
Greg Mairs after becoming English national champions alongside wife Jenny for the second time in a row.
FROM THAILAND MASTERS 2023
“This is our first final and that too against the home pair, who had great support. There’s a lot we can learn from this experience.”
Luo Xu Min savours finishing women’s doubles runners-up with Li Yi Jing.
“We found some confidence back after poor results at the first three tournaments of the year. But we can still do better.”
Toh Ee Wei keen to build on the second-place finish in Bangkok.
“I’ve been struggling to get good results these past few years so to win a title here, it means a lot. The Thai people have also been very kind. I had a knock on my head in the first match, so I had to go to the hospital, where I was given great care. I’m really pleased about that.”
Aya Ohori had a week to remember for more reasons than one.
“I’m happy with my fighting spirit throughout the tournament. I also managed to achieve some stuff I’ve been working on so it’s been a productive week.”
Loh Kean Yew leaves Thailand a contented man.