Kunlavut Vitidsarn’s breakthrough triumph at the Malaysia Open carried the subtle influence of Malaysian badminton legend Datuk Seri Lee Chong Wei, with the Thai shuttler crediting him for advice that helped him cope with pressure both on and off the court.
The Thai star claimed his first Super 1000 title today after China’s world No. 1 Shi Yu Qi was forced to retire during the men’s singles final at the Axiata Arena due to a back injury.
Kunlavut, a former world champion, also earned US$101,500 (approximately RM413,257) in prize money from the victory.
He had edged a tense opening game 23-21 and was leading 6-1 in the second when defending champion Shi signalled he could not continue.
Although the manner of victory was unexpected, Kunlavut said the guidance he has received from Lee Chong Wei — who also presented the trophy — has been instrumental in his career.
“I want to thank Lee Chong Wei for always giving me advice whenever I have problems or worries,” Kunlavut said after the match. “He shared valuable guidance on how to prepare and how to control everything, both on the court and outside the court.”
The 24-year-old admitted the Malaysia Open final was as mentally demanding as it was physically, describing the experience of contesting his first Super 1000 final as both exciting and stressful.
Displaying sportsmanship, Kunlavut also expressed concern for Shi Yu Qi following the Chinese shuttler’s withdrawal. “I hope he stays healthy and recovers soon,” he said.
Looking ahead, Kunlavut set his sights on even bigger goals, saying: “I want to win the world championship, Olympic gold and the All England title.”
In the mixed doubles final, China’s world No. 1 pair Feng Yan Zhe and Huang Dong Ping defeated world No. 2 compatriots Jiang Zhen Bang and Wei Ya Xin 21-19, 21-19 to secure their first Malaysia Open title.
