Baying For Gold

Behind this month's cover star and shuttler Loh Kean Yew's affable nature is a championship pedigree who has tasted gold and is out for more.

- Asaph Low

After an intense exchange of 78 points and the passing of 43 minutes, Loh Kean Yew sank to his knees as the realisation of the moment came crashing in. He had just won the Badminton World Federation World Championships title and cemented his place in sporting folklore. Loh’s final rally with Srikanth Kidambi was a jangle of nerves as neither committed their offensive plays wholeheartedly. Finally, the shuttlecock landed in the backcourt in Loh’s favour as his push-back play proved decisive. The margins were fine, an ounce more of strength and the game could have a different ending. Perhaps it was the remaining energy Loh could summon from his battered body as he competed in the semi-final and final with a rolled ankle he picked up in the quarter-finals. Mind over matter was rightfully in play as Loh’s determination and willpower pushed him through the final hurdle having entered the tournament unseeded and playing the finals as the underdog. With 2021 done and dusted with championship gold, 2022 beckons Loh with a series a high profile competitions. Champions are those who never rest on their laurels and having tasted the sweetness of victory, Loh will be on a mission baying for gold.

Hello Kean Yew! First off, our heartiest and extremely belated congratulations to you for winning the World Championship. Are the memories of the victory still fresh four months later?

It’s a moment I will never forget. This is my biggest achievement so far and it was a great fairy tale run.