Razif prepares his son to continue Sideks’ legacy in future – Badminton Update
The second oldest brother of the famous “Sideks” of Malaysia Razif Sidek is determined to keep family tradition alive as he is watching the steps of his son Mohd Fazriq on badminton court these days.
In this badminton-crazy nation, the Sidek family was famous for its splendid history but none of them could make an impact after Rashid Sidek who won the bronze medal in 1996 Atlanta Olympics.
The 50-year-old Razif, who holds the honour of fetching the country’s first Olympic medal in 1992, was not comfortable with this demise but now it seems he has a hope in shape of his youngest son.
Former national chief coach looked proud while discussing his eight-year-old son. He commented that the youngster is crazy about the game that he even wanted to quit studies just to play badminton all the time.
He said, “He wanted to quit schooling to play badminton every day. I took him aside and explained that education is important. We then made a deal: he will continue schooling and I will start coaching him.”
Razif raised country’s flag along with his brother Jalani Sidek all over the world as they bagged many prestigious titles including Commonwealth Games and All England Open.
The Men’s Doubles legend was also member of the national team that won Thomas Cup Finals for the first time in 1992.
Now, while coaching his son, he hopes that the youngster will follow this successful trail and will represent the country in mega events like Olympics and World Championships.
He said, “I hope he will do much better than me. He is still very young but I hope he will keep the fire burning and will one day compete in the World Championships or the Olympics.”
He also revealed in a lighter mood that his father, Fazriq idealises Lee Chong Wei and spends so much time watching the maestro’s on court videos.
Razif, also known as Ajib in his social circle, started coaching after his retirement and proved his point also in this new role. Malaysia secured two medals under his supervision in 1996 Atlanta Olympics.
Now, he is working with Kuala Lumpur Racket Club (KLRC) where he has been given the task to polish young talent of the country.
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