K.M. Boopathy

Kwong Beng was a surprise inclusion in the Korat Sea Games squad and was unfortunate to go into the history books as the player who lost the decisive third singles to Ashton Chen which sealed Singapore’s 3-1 win, their first over Malaysia in the men’s team event.

Kwong Beng, 22, said the defeat had affected his confidence which led to him producing poor results throughout 2008, but last year his game began to pick up steam and he is now one of the players fighting for a Thomas Cup berth.

Recalling the match against Singapore, Kwong Beng said: “We were trailing 1-2 and I was supposed to save the tie but I failed and that defeat shook my confidence. But I am glad I didn’t let it ruin my career.

“I am the least experienced among the players vying for a place in the Thomas Cup squad but nonetheless I am going to give it my best shot. I have learnt a bitter lesson so I hope the Thomas Cup, if I am selected, will be the start of better things for me.

“I need to do well in the German Open (next month) and if I'm lucky, I may also get a place in the All England qualifying draw. I have to start beating top class players in order to give myself a chance.
“It is also important for me to start aiming big on the international scene where I have yet to win a title.

“I am already 22 and if I don't establish myself in the next two years, I can forget about becoming a world beater.”

Kwong Beng, who has been Lee Chong Wei's sparring partner for almost three years, has failed to capitalise on that advantage, but admitted that advice from the World No 1 has helped him become a better player.

Courtesy of New Straits Times