Malaysia’s top women’s doubles badminton pair, Pearly Tan and Thinaah Muralitharan, recently shared their thoughts on their journey, changes in their gameplay, and challenges posed by their Chinese rivals as they gear up for the upcoming Paris Olympic Games.
In an interview, Tan and Thinaah opened up about how their approach to the game has evolved over time. “One of the significant changes is that we enjoy ourselves more on the court now,” said Tan. “We’ve been working hard to handle the pressure, especially with the Olympics on the horizon. It’s important for us to cherish each competition and learn from every experience.”
The duo has faced formidable opponents from the Chinese mainland, including the world-renowned pair Chen Qingchen and Jia Yifan, as well as rising stars Liu Shengshu and Tan Ning. Reflecting on their matches, Thinaah expressed admiration for their competitors. “Both pairs are incredibly strong. Chen and Jia have a lot of experience, while Liu and Tan, despite being young, have strong hearts and mature techniques,” she said. “Playing against them is always challenging, but it pushes us to improve.”
Tan added, “Facing such high-caliber players motivates us to elevate our game. It’s about learning from each match and staying focused on our goals.”
As Tan and Thinaah continue their preparations for the Paris Olympics, they emphasize the importance of teamwork and resilience. “We’re committed to supporting each other and staying positive,” said Thinaah. “The journey is just as important as the destination, and we’re excited for what’s ahead.”
With their dedication and passion, the Malaysian duo aims to make a significant impact on the global stage, inspiring young athletes in their home country and across the Global South.
