Zulfadli Zulkifli wins the Boy’s Singles U-18 title in the National Junior Circuit Grand Prix Finals
Malaysia’s Zulfadli Zulkifli has won the Boy’s Singles Under-18 title by beating Nur Mohd Azriyn Ayup in the final of the National Junior Circuit Grand Prix Finals 2011, at Bukit Kiara, Malaysia, on Sunday, May 22.
Zulfadli delivered a remarkable performance against Azriyn and finished up the match in straight sets.
The Kuala Lumpur player has been winning the Boy’s Singles titles in all categories including the Under-12, Under-16 and now, he has also become the champion in the Under-18 category.
After winning the title match, Zulfadli said, “I am really happy to win as this is my last year as a junior and I am glad that I finally won all the singles titles in the GP Finals on my final try,” said a delighted Zulfadli. It was not an easy match as
I got off to a terribly slow start and was committing unforced errors, thus allowing Azriyn to control the game.”
While talking about his planning in the final match, Zulfadli said that he tried to read the game of his opponent and was confident as the match progressed. He played a better game and remained focused throughout the match. His game plan worked well and
earned him a much needed title, which will open the doors of the national squad for him.
Zulfadli’s next major target will be to perform well in the Asian Junior Championships, which will take place in India, this July. The young shuttler is optimistic to continue his impressive run in the tournament, which will be held in the sub-continent.
Next year, the 18-year-old will not be able to participate in the National Junior Circuit, as he will become over-aged. Zulfadli is expected to enter the Men’s Singles national squad in the coming year, as he has proven his worth by delivering consistent
performances in the last couple of years.
Coaches of the Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM) have been observing the performances of the junior shuttlers in the GP Finals. They expect Zulfadli to continue his tremendous run of form in the Asian Junior Championships.
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