PUTRAJAYA: It came a year late but Chong Wei Feng was still over the moon after emerging as the national men’s singles champion for the first time.
On Monday, the 26-year-old Wei Feng went on the attack from the start to beat former international Tan Chun Seang 21-14, 21-9 in the final of the National Grand Prix Finals at the Precinct 11 Sports Complex. 
“I should have won it last year when (Lee) Chong Wei skipped the local tournament. Instead, I lost to Misbun Ramdan (Misbun) in the final,” said Wei Feng.
“This time, I got it right and I have justified my position as a senior player in the national team,” said Wei Feng.
Bouyed by his breakthrough, Wei Feng said he would be out to raise his game to a higher level in international tournaments next year.
“This year, my target was reaching the world’s top 10 but I failed. I hope to accomplish it next season,” said Wei Feng, the world No. 13.
“I also lost to two lower-ranked players in international tournaments this year. I will try to avoid doing so next year.
“I want to represent the country for the first time in the Thomas Cup Finals and make my first appearance in a Super Series tournament,” added Wei Feng, who will now shift his focus to the Korean Open from Jan 8-13.
In women’s singles, Yang Li Lian also nailed her first national title when she ended the gallant run of Lim Chiew Sien with a 21-14, 21-19 win.
