THANK you, boys.

How does it feel to be the world champion? Delirious with joy, on top of the world and what else…

Both of you united the country on August 28 by delivering the first world badminton championship crown just days before Merdeka Day and a 45-year wait. It was a history-making narrative.

We are all so proud of you. You have proven that winning the world title is not impossible.

You created history and made it the best gift for Merdeka since we have been fed with gloomy news for the last few weeks.

Your opponent in the final was formidable and your emphatic victory silenced many critics. Only last month, your compatibility was questioned by local sports fans. But your coach, Rexy Mainaky, said he would not risk splitting you up.

Criticism should only serve to build a stronger mentality and prove to them your capabilities.

Rexy allowed you space to always speak up about problems faced and believed in you. He helped build up self-confidence, belief in yourselves and a winning mindset.

Both of you took up the challenge and continued with your partnership, and your connection has remained strong.

But on-court, you are on your own.

Your “kan cheong” (nervous) start in the final was a bit nerve-wracking but the switch in strategy and tactics subdued the opponents.

Your act of giving encouragement towards each other and remaining focused was exemplary. Patience and knowing your strengths also help.

You were known to be too defensive but in the final, there was more variety and chances for attacking. The rest is history.

It has been a long road since you paired up in 2017.

Now that you are a champion, do stay grounded and continue working hard because aspiring players will want to dethrone you.

Divine intervention also was there because Rexy was praying to God the whole week asking for blessings for the both of you.

You have delivered but would Malaysians continue their support?

What say you… – August 30, 2022.

* Saleh Mohammed reads The Malaysian Insight.

* This is the opinion of the writer or publication and does not necessarily represent the views of The Malaysian Insight. Article may be edited for brevity and clarity.