National singles badminton coach Hendrawan issued an apology to all Malaysian fans after Lee Chong Wei’s final defeat at the hands of Chen Long yesterday.
The former world number one went into the game determined to end his barren spell at the World Championships but he struggled against the more superior Chen Long, who outclassed him 21-14, 21-17 to retain the title he won in Copenhagen last year.
“I did everything I could for Lee Chong Wei. I’m sorry,” Hendrawan said, as quoted by Harian Metro.
“We’ve tried different strategies, but Chen Long was still able to read Chong Wei’s playing style. First thing I told Chong Wei is that you have to pressure Chen Long, because if he gets into his zone, it becomes difficult.
“True enough, when Chen Long seized the momentum, it became very difficult,” Hendrawan added.
The Indonesian, however, reiterated his intention to remain with BAM and help groom more players to improve Malaysia’s reputation on the international scene.
“But I promise to continue helping Malaysia in any way I can. This was the best I could do for Chong Wei.
“But we all know that every Malaysian out there wants to see him become World Champion,” he added.
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