Zulfadli Zulkifli cruises into the next stage in the National Junior Circuit GP Finals 2011
Malaysia’s Zulfadli Zulkifli, who is one of the most talented players in the Boy’s Singles Under-18 category, has cruised into the next stage after beating Ai Wen Jien, in his
opening match in the 100Plus National Junior Circuit GP Finals 2011, at Juara Stadium, Malaysia, on May 19.
Zulfadli was in tremendous form during his match against Ai Jien, who played well in the opening set but eventually became slow as the match progressed. He could not match the
speed and accuracy of Zulfadli and lost the match in straight sets.
After winning the match, Zulfadli said that in the start he was not playing at his best. He took a little time to familiarise himself with the conditions of the court and geared
up his speed, in the second set of the match.
The Kuala Lumpur player is contesting in this junior event for the last time as he will become over-aged in the next edition of this championship. The event plays an important
role in the development of badminton in the whole country by introducing young and talented shuttlers.
He added that the competition is very tough as all participants in this event are the best shuttlers in the whole country.
Zulfadli said, “The shuttlers from Bukit Jalil Sports School (BJSS), especially, are generally stronger than the rest. I will have to be at my best if I am to win the title. I
would also prefer not to be rated as the favourite because that would mean less pressure and I can go on and play at my own pace.”
Zulfadli is the favourite in this event, as he has already clinched two legs of the National Circuit events. If he manages to win the title in the Under-18 category, he is expecting
a call from the Badminton Association of Malaysia, to join the national squad junior shuttlers.
These junior players will represent Malaysia in the Asian junior championships, which is the most prestigious tournament for juniors in Asia. The event will be held in India, later
this year.
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