PETALING JAYA: Newly crowned world champion doubles player Soh Wooi Yik is inspired by Indonesia’s Mohammad Ahsan and Hendra Setiawan to achieve more in his career.
Wooi Yik and partner Aaron Chia created history by becoming the first Malaysians to capture the world crown after beating the legendary pair in the final of the world meet in Tokyo on Sunday.
A class above the rest: Aaron Chia (right) and Soh Wooi Yik created history by becoming the first Malaysians to capture the world crown. — AFP
The Malaysian pair’s success has now lifted them one rung from sixth to fifth in the world rankings.
Despite overcoming his idols to win the title, Wooi Yik is still determined to learn from Ahsan-Hendra, who had already captured the title three times together.
The 24-year-old Malaysian revealed that in 2019, when he and Aaron lost in the All-England final to the veterans, he approached them for advice on how to become successful.
Ahsan-Hendra told Wooi Yik to keep working hard and to always remain humble.
“It was only a few words but it was a big encouragement for me. They (Ahsan-Hendra) have always been my idols and served as inspiration for me,” shared Wooi Yik in social media.
He and Aaron then went on to beat Ahsan-Hendra in the Olympics bronze-medal match, also in Tokyo last year, before their historic win in the world meet.
Aaron-Wooi Yik, who have yet to win an Open title prior to their World Championships triumph, are determined to build on the success despite the many challenges awaiting them.
And Wooi Yik’s determination to learn from Ahsan-Hendra could pay even more dividends as the Indonesians are fine examples to every aspiring shuttler.
Ahsan, 34 and Hendra, 38, have won almost all the major titles on offer together, such as the World Championships (2013, 2015, 2019), 2014 Asian Games and 2020 Thomas Cup.
Hendra had also captured the 2007 World Championships, 2008 Olympic gold and 2010 Asian Games gold with former partner Markis Kido.
Despite all their success and entering the twilight of their careers, Hendra-Ahsan still remain hungry for more.
Aaron-Wooi Yik and all the other national shuttlers should always be motivated to want to achieve further success just like the Indonesian pair.
Aaron-Wooi Yik will return home from Tokyo today.
