Badminton

'Recharged' Jin Wei ready to do battle in Shenzhen

KUALA LUMPUR: A refreshed Goh Jin Wei is determined to deliver a strong performance at the China Masters in Shenzhen after skipping the European leg of the World Tour to recharge.

The world No. 40 faces a tough opener against former Commonwealth Games champion Michelle Li of Canada in the first round of the Super 750 tournament, which begins tomorrow.

Jin Wei desperately needs a breakthrough following first-round exits in her last six tournaments.

A win over world No. 23 Michelle would be a timely confidence boost for the Malaysian.

Michelle has been in solid form, reaching the quarter-finals of the Super 500 Arctic Open in Finland and the Super 750 Denmark Open in Odense last month.

Jin Wei's coach, Nova Armada, believes his charge is ready for the challenge.

"Michelle is an experienced player and not easy to beat. Jin Wei cannot underestimate her," said Nova.

"Jin Wei finally had some quality preparation since the Olympics, and I believe she is determined to clear this first hurdle in Shenzhen.

"This draw gives Jin Wei a good chance to reach the second round, but she must first overcome Michelle to regain her confidence."

Jin Wei skipped the Arctic and Denmark Opens to rest and focus on training, prioritising her fitness and game preparation.

Should Jin Wei beat Michelle, she will likely take on world No. 7 Han Yue of China, who won the Hong Kong and Arctic Opens this year.

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