Lee’s target now is to concentrate on winning major titles
Posted by valsus on January 10, 2010
KUALA LUMPUR : More quality and not quantity is the aim of Malaysia’s world number one men’s singles shuttler Lee Chong Wei this year.
An older and wiser Chong Wei said that he had put in a lot of effort into planning for a successful and meaningful 2010.
“I won the most number of titles (seven) in my career last year. This year, it will be about winning major tournaments,” said the 28-year-old Chong Wei.
“I may win fewer tournaments this year but it will be titles that means a lot to me and the country.”
His priority is to rise to expectations in the Thomas Cup Finals, World Championships, Commonwealth Games and the Asian Games.
He has also set his mind on winning the Super Series titles that he has not won before. The four tournaments that are still elusive to Chong Wei are the Korean Open, All-England and the two Opens in China.
“I have reached the finals of all these four Super Series events but failed to win. It will be an achievement for a player to win every title in the Super Series,” he said.
“I will be competing in the Korean Open next week and my goal is to win the title. It is always nice to start the year with a bang.”
He will also take part in the Malaysian Open (Jan 19-24) and the two back-to-back Europe tournaments in England and Switzerland in March.
“I would love to win all the titles but I have to be realistic. I would not lose sleep if several Super Series titles slip through my hand this time. I am clear with my focus for this year.”
Chong Wei said that he was also giving great emphasis on his training schedule.
“I am getting older and have a better understanding on how my body copes with the training,” he said. “My recovery rate has slowed down. I have to make a lot of adjustments. I look forward to quality training sessions and a good rest in between,” he said.
On being the only Malaysian singles player expected to win all the time, Chong Wei said: “It is a big burden on my shoulder but I will deliver as long as I can.
“At the same time, I hope the others move up. I will do my part to encourage and inspire the younger players.”
Chong Wei and all the Malaysian singles players left yesterday for the Korean Open, the opening leg of the Super Series season. The tournament begins in Seoul on Wednesday.
