Shuttler Ling Ching aiming for the sky

KUCHING: Sarawak’s Wong Ling Ching who won gold in the women’s singles badminton event at the recent Malaysia Games (SUKMA) aims to become Malaysia’s top badminton player.

Currently ranked third in Malaysia, Wong admitted she didn’t realise her finals match against Penang’s Oo Shan Zi was significant for Sarawak’s 75th gold medal.

“She (Oo) is a junior, and I’ve played against her before during training, so my experience really helped me secure the gold medal,” Wong told reporters at a press conference at the Sarawak Badminton Association (SBA) hall yesterday (26 Aug).

The 21-year-old from Miri also said she will be training for upcoming international competitions.

Ling Ching, ranked world No. 80, revealed that her favourite badminton player is Taiwan’s Tai Tzu Ying.

Following on Malaysia’s past legends, she said hers would be former Malaysian badminton single’s player, Wong Mew Choo.

Ting.

Sarawak SUKMA team manager Ting Ching Zung said Wong will be preparing for her next competition in Taipei.

“The national team has organised a series of tournaments for her to boost her world ranking and gain more exposure to become a better player,” he added.

Ling Ching made history as the first-ever gold medallist in the women’s singles badminton event, ending Sarawak’s 38-year wait for a gold medal in the sport.

She defeated Shan Zi in straight sets, with scores of 21-12 and 21-15.