LIM Chiew Sien’s maiden appearance in the Sea Games could be a turning point in her badminton career.
The World No 142 was included in the women’s singles team two weeks ago along with Yang Li Lian following national No 1 Tee Jing Yi’s decision to quit the national team.
A member of the 2011 World Junior Championships mixed team gold medallists, Chiew Sien is giving herself three years to establish herself in the sport.
"I hope to become a top-10 shuttler in the world in three years but it will not be an easy feat. I still need to work my game," said Chiew Sien at Wunna Theikdi Arena in Naypyitaw yesterday.
"I thought I was dreaming when I was told I would be replacing Jing Yi in the Sea Games squad. I could not believe it at first."
"Jing Yi, however, returned to the national team three days ago but it was too late to play in the Sea Games. I will use this chance to learn and prepare myself for the future."
Chiew Sien, who has been under BAM for the last four years, is coached by Wong Tat Meng. Among the 19-year-old’s achievements this season was reaching the quarter-finals of the Iran Fajr International and the Malaysian International.
"Tat Meng is not here to guide me but he has advised me on several areas. He wants me to do my best and treat it as a challenge. I am here not to make up the numbers. My goal is to win a medal."
On the favourites in women’s singles, Chiew Sien picked Thailand as the top contenders.
"Although Thailand are without their top shuttlers, they are still the favourites in singles. Even their lower-ranked players have the depth and experience."
Chiew Sien, who adores China’s former world champion Wang Yihan, said she needs to work on her patience during matches.
"I tend to become hasty in my decisions on court. My coach is working on my weaknesses. I am still making the transition from junior to senior badminton," she added.
The badminton draw will be conducted today.
