Badminton News: It was a bittersweet performance for freelance men’s singles player Soong Joo Ven at the recently concluded Maldives International Challenge tournament.
World number 72 Joo Ven had to settle for a silver medal after losing 19-21 18-21 to India’s world number 240 R. Ravi in the final at the Male Sports Complex on Sunday.
Joo Ven’s road to his first title in years looked bright when he stunned fellow Indian player Kiran George (#46) 13-21, 21-17, 21-16 in the semis, but he didn’t. was unable to reproduce the same form to determine the title.
If there’s any consolation for Joo Ven, it’s the fact that he’s now well on his way to getting back into shape after being hampered by injury since last September.
Soong Joo Ven injured his knee nine months ago and had just recovered, he injured his heel during a European tour about two months ago.
“I have mixed feelings after finishing second in the Maldives,” said 28-year-old Joo Ven.
“Everything went well and I did pretty well to reach the final, but I didn’t play my best game in the last game. But I’m happy to be back on the court pain free this time after several difficult months of injury management.”
“To be honest, I was really scared that I wouldn’t be able to play after this injury, but I’m happy to be back on track. I think it’s good progress for me to get my form back and my momentum.
Soong Joo Ven will next compete in the Taiwan Open starting today at Tian-mu Arena.
He is preparing for a tough challenge after receiving a tough draw, where he will face Hong Kong world number 121 Chan Yin Chak in the first round.
Joo Ven lost to him at the Thailand Masters in February and the Thailand International Challenge in March.
“I hope to reach the quarter-finals but it will be difficult. Yin Chak has a very good attacking game,” he said.
“Even if I can pass the first round hurdles, I might meet Kenta Nishimoto from Japan, but I have to give my best, so I hope I can prepare well for this tournament.”
Article tags: Soong Joo Ven, Kenta Nishimoto
