We’re not bad: Goh Boon Zhe (back) and Beh Chun Meng are determined to prove themselves against the likes of Indonesia’s world No. 14 Mohd Shohibul Fikri-Bagas Maulana and world No. 33 Pramudya Kusumawarda-Yeremia Rambitan. - GLENN GUAN/The Star
NATIONAL men’s doubles pair Goh Boon Zhe-Beh Chun Meng are not just partners on court but both are also inspired by Indonesian stars.
Boon Zhe admires Olympic gold medallist and four-time world champion Hendra Setiawan while Chun Meng looks up to former world No. 1 Kevin Sanjaya.
But both Malaysians will not let their admiration stop them from giving Indonesian pairs a tough time in Cambodia.
“I really admire Hendra as he is still playing at the highest level although he is already 38 years old,” said Boon Zhe, who turns 20 next month.
“I have watched him play in all the major tournaments and hope to be successful as him one day.“For now, Chun Meng and I are ranked 77th in the world and we are aiming to break into the top 50 by the end of this year.”
Chun Meng, who hails from Penang, also echoed his partner’s sentiment.
“I love watching Kevin as he is so skilful and moves really fast on court,” he said.
In the biennial Games, Boon Zhe-Chun Meng, who are making their debuts, are determined to prove themselves against the likes of Indonesia’s world No. 14 Mohd Shohibul Fikri-Bagas Maulana and world No. 33 Pramudya Kusumawarda-Yeremia Rambitan.
“The Indonesian pairs are strong but we are not bad ourselves,” said Boon Zhe.
“We came here to try to challenge higher ranked pairs and we will give our very best against them.
“We are aiming to win medals in both the individual and team events.”
The men’s team will play Vietnam in the quarter-finals today.
Despite being favourites for the tie, Boon Zhe has warned against complacency.
“Vietnam have good players and we can’t afford to underestimate them. We need to win.”
A victory will likely see Malaysia face defending champions Thailand in the last four.
Meanwhile, the women’s team will open their campaign against the Philippines and should have no problems to reach the semi-finals where they will likely go up against Indonesia.
