BAM reject Amanda sends out strong message with scalp of top seed
When Amanda Yap passed over for the national team seven months ago, she experienced the hurt of rejection.
By eliminating top seed Eoon Qi Xuan of Perak from the Malaysia Games yesterday, the 18-year-old from the Federal Territories delivered a clear message to the Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM) (Sukma).
At the Axiata Arena in Bukit Jalil, Amanda overcame a deficit to win the second-round match 18-21, 21-17, 27-25 in 54 minutes.
The Sukma rookie was overjoyed to earn the biggest victory of her career to far.
“I’m overjoyed to achieve this significant victory, considering I’ve never made it this far in a competition.
“In the past, I faced the top seeds in the first stages of the Under-18 and Under-21 national championships and lost both times. So, finally winning this time feels amazing,” remarked Amanda.
The young woman, who trains full-time at the Kuala Lumpur Badminton Association right now, believes that she was right to stick with the sport after being turned down by the BAM.
“My loved ones advised me to stop and continue my education, so I did. But I thought I could still learn at any age. Despite being turned down, I didn’t want to give up since I really enjoy the sport. I believe that my decision is beginning to pay off, Amanda said.
She will then face Casey Rynn from Sabah in the quarterfinals as she pursues a medal.
In these Games, I truly want to win a medal. If I do, perhaps BAM will think about choosing me,” stated Amanda.
The other quarterfinal matches will feature the third seed Ong Xin Yee of the Federal Territories playing Johor’s Tan Zhing Yi, the second seed Myisha Khairul of Johor playing Selangor’s K. Letshanaa, and the third seed Siti Nurshuhaini Azman of Selangor playing Melaka’s Siti Zulaikha Azmi.
In the men’s singles competition, top seed Ng Tze Yong of Johor easily defeated Anson Cheong of Perak 21-8, 21-15 to go to the round of eight.
Chia Jeng Hon of Pahang should have little issue losing to Tze Yong today.
