Men’s singles shuttler Leong Jun Hao is aiming to bounce back as Malaysia take on Indonesia in the SEA Games men’s team final in Bangkok today (Dec 10).
A usually dependable team-event performer, Jun Hao struggled in the semi-finals against Thailand, falling in straight games to 2023 world champion Kunlavut Vitidsarn. Malaysia, however, recovered well to clinch a 3-1 win through Justin Hoh, Aaron Chia–Soh Wooi Yik, and Man Wei Chong–Tee Kai Wun.
Ranked world No. 29, Jun Hao is prepared for the challenge but acknowledges the difficulty of facing world No. 17 Alwi Farhan in the opening match.
He said he started strongly against Kunlavut but failed to capitalize on key points, adding that he needs to improve in that area. He previously met Alwi at the Korean Open, losing a close match, but believes the team-event setting gives him extra motivation.
Jun Hao is determined to overcome an inconsistent season and deliver for Malaysia at this year’s Games. The 26-year-old played a crucial role in Malaysia’s run to the Thomas Cup semi-finals last year and famously upset Indonesia’s Chico Aura in the 2023 SEA Games team final.
A strong performance from the Setapak-born player today could give Malaysia the momentum needed to push through the tie.
Malaysia will also depend on world No. 38 Justin Hoh in the second singles as he seeks to avenge his earlier loss to world No. 48 Moh Zaki Ubaidillah at the Thailand Masters. If the final reaches a decider, world No. 45 Aidil Sholeh Ali Sadikin will take on either world No. 52 Prahdiska Bagas or world No. 80 Yohanes Saut.
In the doubles, world No. 2 Aaron Chia–Soh Wooi Yik are expected to face world No. 8 Sabar Karyaman Gutama–Moh Reza Pahlevi Isfahani, while world No. 5 Man Wei Chong–Tee Kai Wun are likely to meet world No. 19 Leo Rolly Carnando–Bagas Maulana.
Men’s doubles coach Herry IP may also consider using scratch pairings depending on the situation.
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