KUALA LUMPUR: World No. 29 Leong Jun Hao, buoyed by his recent breakthrough at the Kumamoto Masters in Japan, is determined to qualify for his first World Championships next year.
The 26-year-old shuttler achieved a career milestone last month, finishing as the runner-up at the Super 500 Kumamoto Masters.
However, Jun Hao is adamant that his success in Japan will not be a one-off achievement.
The shuttler hopes the arrival of new singles head coach Kenneth Jonassen will boost his confidence and game.
The qualifying window for the World Championships in Paris (Aug 25-31) will remain open until April next year.
A maximum of three players per nation ranked in the top 24 will earn their spots at the tournament.
Jun Hao believes he is on track to break into the top 24, joining world No. 8 Lee Zii Jia, who is almost guaranteed to qualify.
The injured Ng Tze Yong, with a protected world ranking of No. 18, and world No. 49 Justin Hoh are also contenders for Malaysia's three slots.
"My main objective is to qualify for the World Championships next year, and I have a good chance," said Jun Hao.
"There are many tournaments ahead to improve my ranking and secure my spot.
"The runner-up finish in Japan is a reward for my perseverance over the years, during which I suffered injuries and a dip in form.
"Now, I want to push for a Super 500 title and beyond. I'm on the right path and determined to maintain this momentum."
Jonassen officially starts on Jan 4.
"I haven't met Jonassen yet, but I'm looking forward to working with him when he starts next month," said Jun Hao.
"I'm eager to discuss my programme and the areas in my game that need improvement."
Jonassen has already expressed confidence in Jun Hao and plans to build a strong rapport with the shuttler and assistant coach K. Yogendran.
Yogendran has been guiding Jun Hao since the departure of Hendrawan in October.
Jun Hao's first test under Jonassen will be the Malaysia Open on Jan 7-12.