PETALING JAYA: Young shuttler Bryan Goonting is banking on a little homeground charm in the Malaysian Super 100 competition smashing off at Stadium Juara in Bukit Kiara today.
Bryan and partner Fazriq Razif begin their campaign in the boys’ doubles against seeded American pair Chen Chi Yi-Presley Smith, who are ranked world No. 44.
The 19-year-old said he’s feeling right at home to leave a lasting impression in the tournament.
“We are playing in our homeground at Stadium Juara – where I train as well. So it gives us a confidence boost and determination to win the title,’’ said Bryan.
“Fazriq and I are in the midst of building a solid foundation in our partnership.”
Bryan and Fazriq, who are ranked 86th, expect to reach at least the quarter-finals.
Their heavy quarter-final defeat to Taiwan’s Lee Fang-chih and Lee Fang-jen during the Macau Open last month, where they lost 7-21, 11-21, was an eye opener for the duo on how much more they need to do to raise their game.
“That was a challenging match as our Taiwan opponents were very experienced. They could predict our moves,’’ added Bryan.
“We did our best and we learned a lot in that game to fight better in future tournaments.
“We need to be more consistent in our training. This includes polishing up our attacks and trying out a variety of shots.”
Bryan’s previous partner was Choi Jian Sheng, who was dropped by the Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM). Bryan paired up with Fazriq this year.
Bryan looks up to 2006 Asian Games gold medallist Tan Boon Heong as a role model.
“I had the chance to spar with Boon Heong before. It was a surreal and rewarding experience,” he said.
“I aim to win a title this year and hopefully, qualify for the Olympics one day.”
Bryan picked up badminton when he was just five years old, where he would play with his brother Brandon.
He then entered the Bukit Jalil Sports School (BJSS) at 13 years old and two years later, he was selected by the BAM.
