KUALA LUMPUR: Low Zi Yu-Genevie Lim's historic world junior triumph must be backed by a clear programme to help them progress to senior badminton, says Goh Liu Ying.
The former national mixed doubles player believes targeted training is crucial to bridge the gap between junior success and consistent performances at the highest level.
Zi Yu-Genevie became Malaysia's first girls' doubles world junior champions after beating Japan's Nijika Kamata-Shizuku Kashio 15-7, 9-15, 15-12 in Cairo on Saturday.
"This is a very good breakthrough for Malaysian women's doubles. We have talented players, but we need more who can compete consistently at the highest level," Liu Ying told Timesport today.
"It is important for the coaches to prepare a more specific programme for our women's doubles players. There is a gap they must overcome when moving from junior to senior competition."
Liu Ying, an Olympic silver medallist in mixed doubles, said partner selection would also play a major role in Zi Yu's development, with compatibility affecting both progress and performance.
Zi Yu finished runner-up with Dania Sofea Zaidi in 2024 and Noraqilah Maisarah Ramdan last year before striking gold with Genevie.
"The choice of partner is very important. When you change partners, rebuilding the ranking also becomes a challenge," said Liu Ying, who won a world junior bronze medal in girls' doubles with Ng Hui Lin in 2007.
"She needs to play more against the top players so we can identify the gaps in her game, consistency and tactics. From there, she can work on her weaknesses."
However, Liu Ying advised patience if a suitable partner was not immediately available, saying players could use that period to work on their individual weaknesses.
She also stressed that physical preparation and injury prevention must form part of their long-term development.
"They are still young and have a long journey ahead, so the focus cannot be only on court training. They also need suitable physical training and strength and conditioning to reduce the risk of injury," she added.
"We do not just want to see them succeed as juniors. We want them to stay healthy, continue developing and compete at senior level for the long term."
Liu Ying urged the youngsters to celebrate their achievement while maintaining their desire to improve.
"The world junior title is an important achievement, but it is only one part of the journey. Enjoy it, but stay hungry to improve."
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